4.1 Identifying and Challenging Assumptions in Academic Writing
Seeing the Unseen
Academic writing is often viewed as a disciplined exercise in clarity, logic, and evidence, but beneath every well-crafted argument lies a web of assumptions. These assumptions guide interpretation, shape inquiry, and influence conclusions, whether the writer is aware of them or not. Understanding the distinction between explicit and implicit assumptions is crucial for developing rigorous, self-aware, and persuasive writing. This chapter examines the role of assumptions within texts, their significance, and how writers can cultivate the critical skills necessary to question, revise, and refine them.
Assumptions are beliefs or premises that we accept—sometimes unconsciously—as true. They support every argument and claim, often operating silently beneath the surface of a specific piece of writing.
Explicit Assumptions
Explicit assumptions are openly stated in the text. These might appear as:
- Hypotheses in scientific papers
- Premises in formal arguments
- Thesis statements or topic sentences in essays
These explicit assumptions are easily identifiable and can be evaluated based on their clarity and the evidence that can support them.
Implicit Assumptions
Implicit assumptions, on the other hand, lurk in the shadows. They are unstated ideas that shape how a writer frames an issue or selects evidence.
Implicit assumptions may be:
- Cultural or disciplinary norms
- Unquestioned values or ideologies
- Linguistic signals or rhetorical choices
Example
In the statement “Students perform better in smaller classes”, the underlying assumption is that class size is the dominant factor influencing student performance. This potentially ignores the differences in teaching methods, pupil motivation, and the quality of the curriculum.
Why Assumptions Matter
Assumptions are not inherently problematic; they are necessary for constructing arguments. However, unexamined or faulty assumptions can:
- Distort reasoning and weaken credibility
- Reinforce bias and exclusion
- Limit the scope of analysis
- Lead to flawed conclusions
Critically engaging assumptions allows writers to deepen their analysis, anticipate counterarguments, and refine their positions.
Exercise: Assumptions
Let’s apply these skills to real academic scenarios. Consider this excerpt from a policy essay: “Urban development is the key to solving the housing crisis.”
Implicit Assumptions:
- The housing crisis is primarily urban.
- Development equals accessibility and affordability.
- Environmental and cultural impacts are secondary.
By surfacing and challenging these assumptions, writers can expand their analysis to include rural concerns, sustainable planning, and community input.
Academic disciplines vary in their assumed values. Historians, economists, and engineers may frame the same problem differently, often based on divergent underlying premises. Engaging with assumptions cultivates interdisciplinary understanding.
