In Arguing with People, Michael A. Gilbert shows how recent developments in the field of Argumentation Theory have bearing on the arguments we encounter in everyday life. Research that had previously been restricted to scholarly journals and monographs is made accessible and, more importantly, useful to the reader. Gilbert emphasises the value of understanding context, understanding who you are arguing with and knowing how to use that information to fruitfully settle disagreements.

This book expands the argumentative toolkit and shows how often-neglected skills such as empathy and tone can be applied to the hurly-burly contexts of real arguing. Interesting examples and sample dialogues are provided to demonstrate tangible ways in which the book's lessons can be applied. Partner exercises provide opportunities to role-play and practise the interpersonal skills developed throughout the book.