# Load-Bearing Structure A **load-bearing structure** in an argument is a core premise or assumption that supports the weight of the entire argument — meaning, if you remove or weaken it, the argument collapses or becomes much less convincing. There are two types of load bearing structures: 1. Foundational claims (premises, assumptions, presuppositions) that the validity of the entire argument rests. 2. Claims with high empirical [Content](Logical%20Content.md). They bear the load of confronting reality and the risk of refutation. --- Date: 20250427 Links to: Tags: References: * []()