Overview
TheArgumentNode schema defines the structure of each node in an argument blueprint. Each node represents a thesis, claim, counterclaim, or piece of evidence in the argument tree.
This schema is central to Argument Cartographer’s mapping and visualization capabilities.
Schema Definition
src/ai/flows/generate-argument-blueprint.ts:28
Fields
Unique identifier for the argument node.Format: Usually incremental like “1”, “2”, “3” or hierarchical like “1.1”, “1.2”.
ID of the parent node, or
null if this is a root node (thesis).This creates the tree structure of the argument.Type of the argument node.Possible values:
thesis: The main question or topic being debatedclaim: An argument supporting the thesiscounterclaim: An argument opposing the thesisevidence: Supporting evidence for a claim or counterclaim
Side of the argument node.Possible values:
for: Supports the thesis or parent claimagainst: Opposes the thesis or parent claim
The content of the argument node.A clear, concise statement of the argument or evidence.
The original text snippet from the source that supports the content.Direct quote or paraphrase from the source material.
The URL of the source document.Note: For user-generated thesis nodes, may be a placeholder like
https://user-input.local/query.An array of logical fallacies identified in this specific argument node.Examples:
["Ad Hominem", "Straw Man"] or [] if none detected.A concise statement explaining the node’s function in the overall argument.Examples:
- “Primary legal basis for the thesis”
- “Economic counterargument”
- “Statistical evidence supporting Claim 2”
Example
Tree Structure
Nodes form a tree through theparentId relationship:
Validation Rules
- Root nodes (thesis) must have
parentId: null - All other nodes must reference a valid parent ID
typemust be one of: thesis, claim, counterclaim, evidencesidemust be either “for” or “against”sourceis validated as a string (URL validation removed to prevent errors with placeholder values)fallaciesarray can be empty but must be present
Usage in Flows
The schema is used in:- Generate Blueprint: Creates array of ArgumentNode objects
- Visualization: Renders nodes in various graph layouts
- Fallacy Detection: Populates the
fallaciesfield - Source Tracking: Links arguments back to original sources
