What does the term "backing" refer to in supportive arguments?

The term "backing" in supportive arguments specifically refers to the foundational assumptions that provide support for a warrant. In the context of an argument, a warrant is a statement that connects the evidence to the claims being made. Backing strengthens the warrant by supplying additional justification or proof that underlies the reasoning process. By establishing these assumptions, backing helps to solidify the argument's credibility and ensures that the rationale is based on reliable principles or theories. Without effective backing, warrants may lack the necessary support to convincingly bridge the evidence to the claims, potentially weakening the overall argument.