1. Claims are supported with reason.  You can usually state a reason as a because clause attached to a claim.

2. A because clause attached to a claim is an incomplete logical structure called an enthymeme.  To create a complete logical structure from an enthymeme, the unstated assumption (or assumptions) must be articulated.

3. To serve as an effective starting point for the argument, this unstated assumption should be a belief, value, or principle the audience grants.

Initial Enthymeme:
 Women should be allowed to join combat units because the image of women in combat would help eliminate gender stereotypes.

Claim: Women should be allowed to join combat units.

Stated Reason: Because the image of women in combat would help eliminate gender stereotypes.

Unstated Assumption: Gender stereotypes are harmful and should be eliminated.

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