When reasoning from specific instances, which of the following strengthens an argument?

Reasoning from specific instances involves taking particular examples and using them to support a broader conclusion or generalization. In this context, statistics serve as a powerful tool to strengthen an argument because they provide quantifiable evidence that bolsters the claims being made. By using statistics, speakers can illustrate the prevalence or impact of a certain issue, thereby making their argument more compelling and credible.

For example, if an argument is made about the effectiveness of a certain educational method, presenting statistics on student performance improvements after implementing that method provides concrete evidence that supports the argument, making it more persuasive to the audience. Statistics can also help to counter anecdotal evidence, which may not be as widely applicable.

While analogies, narratives, and examples each have their own value in argumentation, they tend to serve more as illustrative or supportive material rather than the foundational evidence that statistics provide. Analogies draw parallels between disparate concepts, narratives offer storytelling elements that can engage audiences, and examples provide specific instances, but statistics typically enhance the strength of the argument by grounding it in data that reflects broader trends or patterns.