On October 17, 2024, Prof. Dr. Jean Wagemans of the Internet Society Netherlands (ISOC NL) Working Group ARGUS – a provisional title for the “Argument-checking and Digital Literacy for Unmasking Sources” initiative – presented an innovative approach to tackling disinformation at the Academic Disinformation Workshop hosted by the Municipality of Amsterdam. Wagemans and ISOC NL Chairman Ruben Brave, permanent members of this workshop, actively contribute to its mission of developing effective strategies against the challenges of disinformation. Known initially as MMGA, the group adopted the ARGUS title to better reflect its focus on critical literacy and digital discernment in today’s information-rich environment. This name may evolve as their work progresses and they further refine their mission.
Beyond Fact-Checking: The Scientific Foundation of Argument-Checking
The shift from fact-checking to argument-checking has garnered strong support in the academic world, highlighting the limitations of merely verifying the truthfulness of isolated statements. As discussed in the University of Amsterdam’s article “From Fact-Checking to Argument-Checking,” fact-checking often misses the persuasive framework where facts serve broader arguments and beliefs. UvA’s Rector Magnificus, Prof. Dr. Karen Maex, stressed the importance of understanding not only facts but also the reasoning and ethical context that shape them, reinforcing the value of rhetorical literacy as a skill for knowledge creation.
Developed by Prof. Dr. Wagemans and Prof. Dr. Federica Russo, UvA’s IIS Honours module From Fact-Checking to Argument-Checking introduces students to tools that assess argumentation beyond surface-level claims. This course, based on scientific principles such as the Periodic Table of Arguments, equips students to evaluate complex argumentative structures, especially in domains where disinformation thrives. For more on the importance of argument-checking and the role of rhetoric in shaping beliefs, read the ISOC NL article “Whoever Does Not Study Rhetoric Will Be a Victim of It.”
A Structured Approach to Argument-Checking
During his presentation, Wagemans introduced the ARGUS methodology, which advances beyond traditional fact-checking by incorporating critical questions around the acceptability, relevance, and sufficiency of premises within broader rhetorical contexts. This structured approach empowers individuals to identify rhetorical tactics that may obscure or distort facts, a critical capability in today’s disinformation landscape.
Critical Thinking and Digital Literacy as Key Outcomes
Argument-checking not only evaluates information but also strengthens critical thinking and rhetorical literacy. Prof. Dr. Russo emphasized that ARGUS aims to enhance these skills, essential in a world where disinformation can deeply impact democratic processes and public trust. By improving people’s ability to analyze arguments ethically and thoroughly, ARGUS plays a vital role in fortifying society’s resilience against manipulative information.
Collaborative Efforts for Future Impact
ISOC NL’s ARGUS Working Group, in partnership with the University of Amsterdam and the Municipality of Amsterdam, is dedicated to advancing argument-checking and related technologies. The Academic Disinformation Workshop serves as a collaborative platform where public, academic, and civic leaders work together to develop robust defenses against disinformation. Additionally, for the practical valorization of ARGUS’s research and insights, the working group is collaborating with Dr. Stefan Mol of the University of Amsterdam to explore pathways to apply these techniques in broader societal contexts.
If you are interested in collaborating with the ARGUS Working Group, please feel free to reach out to Prof. Dr. Jean Wagemans or ISOC NL Chairman Ruben Brave at bureau@isoc.nl. Through initiatives like ARGUS, ISOC NL proudly supports a critically engaged and resilient digital society, fostering informed and ethical argumentation.