Literary Term - Argumentative Essay

 

Literary Term

Argumentative Essay 

"Argumentative Essay" is a specific type of essay writing that aims to persuade the reader to accept the author's viewpoint or opinion on a particular topic or issue. In this type of essay, the writer presents logical arguments and supporting evidence to support their perspective and ultimately convince the reader of the validity of their position.

The structure of an argumentative essay typically includes:

Introduction: This section provides an overview of the topic and includes a clear thesis statement, which states the author's main argument or position.

Background information: The writer may provide some context or background information about the topic to help the reader understand the subject matter better.

Body paragraphs: Each body paragraph focuses on presenting a specific argument or point that supports the thesis statement. Writers use facts, statistics, examples, and expert opinions to back up their claims.

Counterarguments: In an argumentative essay, it's essential to acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints. The writer should anticipate and refute counterarguments to strengthen their own position.

Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points presented in the essay and restates the thesis statement. It may also include a call-to-action or a final thought to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

Argumentative essays are commonly assigned in academic settings and often used as a way for students to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to construct well-reasoned arguments. They can also be found in newspapers, magazines, and other forms of media where authors seek to persuade their audience on various topics.

Models for Argumentative Essays

When it comes to writing argumentative essays, there are several models or approaches that writers can use to structure and develop their arguments effectively.

 

Classical Model:

The classical model, also known as the Aristotelian model, is one of the oldest and most traditional approaches to argumentative essays. It consists of three main parts:

Introduction: The writer introduces the topic and provides background information. The thesis statement, presenting the main argument, is typically placed at the end of the introduction.

Body: The body of the essay is divided into several paragraphs, each addressing a specific point or argument that supports the thesis. Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence and is followed by supporting evidence, examples, and reasoning.

Conclusion: In the conclusion, the writer restates the thesis in a different way and summarizes the main points discussed in the essay. The goal is to leave a lasting impression on the reader and reinforce the validity of the writer's position.

 

Rogerian Model:

The Rogerian model, proposed by psychologist Carl Rogers, emphasizes finding common ground and understanding between opposing viewpoints. It is particularly useful when dealing with highly contentious or emotionally charged topics. The structure includes:

Introduction: The introduction provides an overview of the issue and acknowledges both sides of the argument without taking a firm stance. The writer emphasizes the importance of understanding different perspectives.

Contextualization: This section presents the concerns and interests of the opposing side in a fair and empathetic manner. It helps create a sense of respect for differing opinions.

Writer's Position: After presenting the opposing side's viewpoint, the writer introduces their own position, offering a compromise or potential solutions.

Evidence and Support: In this part, the writer provides evidence and logical reasoning to support their position while still respecting the other side's concerns.

Conclusion: The conclusion reiterates the shared goals and potential for cooperation, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground and understanding between opposing views.

 

Toulmin Model:

The Toulmin model is a more modern approach to argumentation, developed by philosopher Stephen Toulmin. It focuses on identifying and analyzing the components of an argument. The main components are:

Claim: The central argument or thesis statement.

Data: The evidence and supporting information used to back the claim.

Warrant: The underlying assumption that connects the data to the claim. It explains why the evidence is relevant and supports the claim.

Backing: Additional support or reasoning for the warrant.

Rebuttal: Addressing counterarguments and opposing viewpoints.

Qualifier: The degree of certainty or scope of the claim. It acknowledges any limitations or conditions under which the argument is valid.

Conclusion: The final part of the essay, summarizing the main points and reiterating the claim and its supporting evidence.

 

These models offer different approaches to structuring an argumentative essay, allowing writers to choose the one that best suits their topic and audience.

Five Types of Argument Claims in Essay Writing

In essay writing, argument claims refer to the different types of assertions or statements that writers make to support their arguments. These claims are essential components of persuasive and argumentative essays, as they provide a clear focus for the writer's position and serve as the main points of their arguments. Here are five types of argument claims:

Fact: A fact claim asserts that something is true or false and can be objectively verified or proven. These claims are based on empirical evidence, statistics, research findings, or historical data. For example, "Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer" is a fact claim because it can be supported with scientific evidence.

Value: A value claim expresses a judgment about the worth or quality of something. These claims are subjective and depend on personal beliefs, cultural norms, or societal standards. For instance, "Animal testing is morally wrong" is a value claim because it involves an ethical judgment.

Policy: A policy claim proposes a specific course of action or solution to a problem. These claims often focus on what should be done to address an issue. For example, "The government should implement stricter gun control laws" is a policy claim.

Cause and Effect: A cause-and-effect claim establishes a relationship between two or more phenomena, explaining how one event or condition leads to another. These claims are often used to analyze and explain causal connections. For instance, "Social media usage is linked to increased feelings of loneliness" is a cause-and-effect claim.

Definition: A definition claim clarifies the meaning or interpretation of a term or concept. These claims aim to provide a specific understanding of a subject to prevent misunderstandings. For example, "Education is the process of acquiring knowledge, skills, and values through formal instruction."

In well-structured argumentative essays, writers use these types of argument claims to establish a strong foundation for their arguments and provide evidence and reasoning to support each claim. By presenting a variety of claim types, writers can effectively persuade their audience and create well-rounded and convincing essays.

Three Major Types of Argument and How to Apply Them

There are three major types of arguments commonly used in essay writing: deductive, inductive, and abductive arguments. Each type has its own approach to reasoning and can be applied in various ways to strengthen your essay's overall argumentation.

 

Deductive Argument:

Definition: Deductive arguments start with general premises or principles and then draw specific conclusions based on those premises. The conclusion is intended to logically follow from the premises, making the argument valid if the premises are true.

Application: To apply a deductive argument in your essay, you would typically start with a broad principle or well-established theory and then use it to support a more specific claim or assertion. This type of argument is often used in academic writing and formal essays where logical reasoning is critical.

Example:

Premise 1: All humans are mortal.

Premise 2: Socrates is a human.

Conclusion: Therefore, Socrates is mortal.

 

Inductive Argument:

Definition: Inductive arguments work in the opposite direction of deductive arguments. They start with specific observations or evidence and then draw broader generalizations or conclusions from those observations. The conclusion is probable or likely based on the evidence.

Application: In your essay, you can use inductive reasoning by presenting specific examples, evidence, or data to support a broader claim or thesis. This type of argument is valuable when dealing with real-world scenarios or drawing conclusions based on empirical evidence.

Example:

Observation: Every time I have eaten peanuts, I've experienced an allergic reaction.

Conclusion: Therefore, I am likely allergic to peanuts.

 

Abductive Argument:

Definition: Abductive arguments focus on the best possible explanation for a given set of observations or evidence. They aim to find the most plausible or likely explanation, even if it cannot be proven with certainty.

Application: In your essay, abductive reasoning can be used to propose a hypothesis or an informed speculation based on the available evidence. It is commonly used in scientific writing or when dealing with complex issues where multiple explanations are possible.

Example:

Observation: The streets are wet, and there are dark clouds in the sky.

Abductive Conclusion: It is likely that it rained recently.

 

In your essay, you can combine these argument types strategically to build a strong and convincing case. Deductive arguments provide a logical framework for your claims, inductive arguments offer concrete evidence, and abductive arguments help you propose reasonable explanations or theories. By incorporating all three types, you present a well-rounded and persuasive argument to your readers. Remember to provide sufficient evidence, examples, and relevant sources to support each type of argument you use.

Four Steps to Outline and Argumentative Essay

Outlining an argumentative essay is a crucial step in organizing your thoughts and ensuring a clear and coherent structure for your writing. Here are four steps to create an effective outline for an argumentative essay:

Introduction and Thesis Statement:

Start with a compelling introduction that provides some background information on the topic and captures the reader's attention. You can use a hook, a surprising fact, a rhetorical question, or an anecdote to engage the audience.

Clearly state your thesis statement, which is the main argument or position you will be defending in the essay. The thesis should be concise, specific, and located at the end of your introduction.

Main Body Paragraphs:

Divide the main body of your essay into several paragraphs, each addressing a distinct point or argument that supports your thesis statement.

Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph.

Provide supporting evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions to back up each claim you make in the topic sentence.

Use transitional words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and ideas.

Counterarguments and Rebuttal:

Address potential counterarguments or opposing viewpoints to demonstrate that you have considered different perspectives on the issue.

Dedicate a paragraph or more to present the most significant counterarguments fairly and accurately.

Follow up with a strong rebuttal that explains why the counterarguments are flawed or why your position is more valid. This strengthens your overall argument.

Conclusion:

Summarize the main points made in the body paragraphs and restate your thesis in a slightly different way to remind the reader of your main argument.

End with a compelling closing statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader and reinforces the significance of your argument.

You can also provide a call-to-action or suggest future implications of your argument if applicable.

Remember, your outline serves as a roadmap for your essay. It should be clear and well-organized, helping you maintain a coherent flow of ideas throughout your writing. Additionally, it allows you to identify any gaps in your argument or areas where you might need more evidence or support. Once you have a well-structured outline, writing the actual essay becomes much more manageable.

Examples of Argumentative Essay in Literature

Argumentative essays are not as common in literature as they are in academic and persuasive writing. However, there are instances in literature where authors present their arguments or viewpoints through their works. These can be seen as "literary argumentative essays." Here are a few examples:

 

"A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift:

Published in 1729, "A Modest Proposal" is a satirical essay written by Jonathan Swift. In the essay, Swift adopts a persona to propose a shocking solution to the problem of poverty in Ireland. He argues that poor families should sell their infants as food to the rich, presenting a cold and logical plan to "improve" the economic situation. Swift's purpose was not to promote cannibalism but to criticize the British government's indifference towards the Irish poor. The essay is a masterful example of using satire and irony to make a powerful argument.

 

"Letter from Birmingham Jail" by Martin Luther King Jr.:

While not a traditional essay, Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Letter from Birmingham Jail" can be seen as a powerful argumentative piece. Written in 1963 during the Civil Rights Movement, King's letter responds to criticisms from white clergymen who opposed his nonviolent protests. King uses persuasive and logical arguments, drawing upon moral and ethical principles to defend the necessity of direct action against racial injustice. He skillfully makes his case for civil disobedience as a means of fighting against segregation and discrimination.

 

"Politics and the English Language" by George Orwell:

George Orwell's essay "Politics and the English Language" is an argumentative piece critiquing the decline of the English language and its connection to political deceit and manipulation. Orwell argues that vague and inflated language is used to disguise the truth and mislead the public. He advocates for clear and honest writing as a means of fostering genuine communication and critical thinking.

 

"The Morals of the Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli:

"The Morals of the Prince" is a chapter within Niccolò Machiavelli's famous work, "The Prince," written in the early 16th century. In this chapter, Machiavelli presents his argument that rulers should prioritize maintaining power and stability over traditional moral principles. He discusses the effectiveness of deception, manipulation, and force in achieving political goals. While not a traditional essay, this work can be seen as an argumentative exploration of political philosophy.

 

These examples showcase how authors have used their literary works to present persuasive arguments, promote critical thinking, and provoke thought on important social, political, and moral issues. While not conforming to the typical structure of academic argumentative essays, these literary works effectively convey arguments through storytelling, satire, and rhetoric.

Function of Argumentative Essay

The primary function of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to accept the author's viewpoint or position on a particular issue or topic. It achieves this goal by presenting logical and well-reasoned arguments supported by evidence, facts, examples, and expert opinions. The argumentative essay serves several important functions:

Persuasion: The essay aims to convince the reader that the author's perspective is valid and well-founded. By presenting compelling arguments and evidence, the writer seeks to sway the reader's opinion and encourage them to adopt the same viewpoint.

Critical Thinking: Argumentative essays require the author to engage in critical thinking and analysis. They must consider various perspectives on the issue, evaluate evidence, and anticipate counterarguments. This process helps the writer develop a more nuanced and well-rounded argument.

Communication Skills: Writing an argumentative essay hones the writer's ability to communicate effectively. They must articulate their ideas clearly, logically, and persuasively to engage the reader and convey their message.

Research Skills: To support their arguments, writers of argumentative essays often conduct research to find relevant evidence and credible sources. This process enhances their research skills and encourages them to evaluate information critically.

Structure and Organization: Argumentative essays require a well-structured and organized approach. Writers must carefully plan the essay's outline, ensuring that each point and piece of evidence flows logically from one to the next. This emphasis on structure enhances the essay's coherence and readability.

Rhetorical Devices: To make their arguments more convincing and engaging, authors often use rhetorical devices such as ethos (appeal to ethics), pathos (appeal to emotions), and logos (appeal to logic). These devices help the writer connect with the reader on an emotional and intellectual level.

Awareness of Opposing Views: Effective argumentative essays acknowledge and address counterarguments. By considering opposing viewpoints and providing rebuttals, the writer demonstrates a deeper understanding of the issue and strengthens their overall argument.

Influencing Public Opinion: Argumentative essays, especially those published in public forums, can influence public opinion and contribute to discussions on important social, political, and ethical issues.

Overall, the function of an argumentative essay goes beyond simply expressing an opinion. It is a powerful tool for engaging readers, promoting critical thinking, and shaping public discourse on various topics and subjects.

Synonyms of Argumentative Essay

There are several synonyms or alternative terms that can be used to refer to an argumentative essay. These synonyms highlight different aspects of the essay or emphasize its persuasive nature. Some common synonyms include:

Persuasive Essay: This synonym emphasizes the primary purpose of the essay, which is to persuade the reader to accept the author's viewpoint.

Controversial Essay: This term highlights the fact that argumentative essays often deal with controversial topics or issues that spark debates and disagreements.

Opinion Essay: This synonym focuses on the essay's expression of the author's opinion and the efforts to persuade the reader to share that viewpoint.

Pro-Con Essay: This term highlights the inclusion of both pros and cons or arguments from different perspectives in the essay.

Position Paper: This synonym is often used in academic or policy contexts to refer to a formal document that argues for a particular position on a specific topic.

Discursive Essay: This term is more commonly used in British English and emphasizes the essay's exploration of various arguments and perspectives on a topic.

Argument Essay: This is a straightforward synonym that emphasizes the essay's purpose of presenting arguments and supporting evidence.

It's essential to note that while these terms may have slightly different connotations, they generally refer to the same type of essay – one that presents arguments and evidence to persuade the reader of the author's viewpoint on a specific issue.