75 2. Argumentative Writing
As we have discussed already, argument requires discussion of two (or more) opposing ideas. It doesn’t mean bashing your opponent because he/she has differing views. A successful argument leads somewhere: there is compromise, agreement, resolution. Today, too often, argument leads no where. Both sides are stagnant and nothing is accomplished. Can you think of any cases where common arguments seem to be going no where?
I like to think that argument can be designed to convince an audience that your side of the issue is the best side. Then, with popular opinion behind you, your argument can gain strength and perhaps convince your opponent to at least consider some kind of compromise (moving toward resolution). Therefore, I like to use traditional argumentative format, an organization technique that has been used for thousands of years (though not so much, anymore, it seems, with the weaknesses in today’s modern argument). I will outline the traditional format below. I suggest you use it in whole or in part to help ensure that you are open-minded yet assertive in your convictions that your side of the argument is the right side.
Introduction
- Exordium: This is the section of your introduction that first grabs your readers’ attention. Think about speeches. How do they often begin? The speaker will often use some kind of joke to attract the listeners before moving into the topic of the speech. Although this doesn’t work well for serious argument (I wouldn’t start an essay on the moral issues of euthanasia with a joke), there are many things you can do in the opening to attract the attention of your reader. Some kind of intriguing story related to the topic (a summary of a specific case on euthanasia), or some personal background showing that you have a vested interest in the topic: you care. This should not be a long section, perhaps one paragraph giving the reader a glimpse into the humanity of the topic and the writer.
- Exposition: You are the expert on this topic (you’ve done the research and experienced the situation). But your reader may not have a strong background. You need to take a moment (or paragraph) to define important issues- give background on what the topic is and why it’s important for the reader. Inform the reader with a brief statement of backgrounds. Again, this should not be overly long- a paragraph, again, will suffice.
- Thesis: A lot of times, separating a thesis from the rest of the opening can emphasize what direction the paper is going in. Whatever the case, you need to identify early what side of the argument you are on: Euthanasia is a process that goes against the moral fibers of society and should not be allowed in a civilized world (your reader clearly identifies with what you are writing about. Make it clear- you support a specific side. If your thesis is “wishy-washy” then your argument will be as well.
- Plan of Proof: You’ve just given an extended introduction (remember, most of your oth