Argument

Dr. Clifton Snider
English 100
California State University, Long Beach

Argument

I. Purpose: to persuade or at least to create tolerance for your point of view on a controversial issue; also to acknowledge the opposing side of the issue.

II. Terminology: use diction appropriate for formal writing. An example that appeals to the emotions is all right if you can provide evidence the example is typical.

III. Organization (see below).

IV. Evidence: facts and opinions from qualified, reputable sources. For this paper you'll need a minimum of three different sources, only one of which can be from an authorized Internet source. See me if you're unsure as to whether the source is authorized

V. Reasoning: the logic you use to support your proposition. Avoid logical fallacies.

Definition of argument:
1. a declaration of judgment based on objective standards (evidence and reasoning)
2. not a matter of mere taste
3. originates in unresolvable conflict
4. cannot be proved

The three kinds of propositions (thesis statements):
1. proposition of fact (A ten p.m. curfew for teenagers violates the Constitution.)
2. proposition of value (A ten p.m. curfew for teenagers is dangerous.)
3. proposition of policy (A ten p.m. curfew for teenagers should be the law.)

Identify the kind of proposition:
1. Vitamin C cures the common cold.
2. People with colds should take vitamin C.
3. Too much vitamin C is harmful.
4. God is dead. (Is this a good topic for argument? Note that freedom of religion is every American's right.)

Requirements of propositions (organization):
1. In your introduction, to make your proposition meaningful and useful, give (A) the history of the question, and/or (B) the occasion of the discussion. Then state your proposition.
2. Phrase it so that it is clear (define broad or connotative words such as academic freedom).
3. State only the main point (Curfews for teenagers should not be adopted; instead, more money should be spent on recreation for them. This is really two propositions.)

The issue is a minor proposition. You have admitted issues for both sides (introduction or first body paragraph) and crucial issues (equivalent of topic sentences in the body).

Evidence: sources and tests for content in the body paragraphs.

Use at least three different qualified, unbiased sources. Of these, only one can be from an authorized web site. Such a web site at the very minimum must be written by an unbiased expert in the field and published by a non-commercial source (no "dot.coms" other than news periodicals, such as latimes.com). Click here for ways to Evaluate Web Pages. See also the pages on evaluating sources in the MLA Handbook. I will accept articles from acceptable (reliable and unbiased) periodicals online from databases such as Academic Universe. Be sure to cite such sources MLA style.

Reasoning: the logic you use to support your position. Avoid logical fallacies. Assume your reader is a member of the class (and include me too!).

For a list of suggested topics, see the Course Packet. You need to limit whichever one you choose, and you're not limited to those topics, but you should clear your topic with me before you proceed with it. Always, you must narrow your topic, which must be defined, to a specific proposition (thesis) that can be handled in the limits (about 600-700 words) of your paper. Be sure to address the other side. Assume the reader won't believe anything you say unless it is supported by logic and/or evidence.

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