ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY
An argument arises when two parties disagree about something. One party gives an opinion and offers reasons in support of it, and the other party gives a different opinion and offers reasons in support its stand. However, people can disagree about many things that cannot be argued effectively. For example, two people might argue that one flavor of ice cream tastes better than another, but there is no way that either party could convince the other party to change his or her preference. However, it could be argued that one flavor seems to be more popular; in this case, facts about sales could be cited. Two people might also disagree about the existence of God, but it is unlikely that one person could convince the other person to change his or her belief, for religious belief is based on faith, not on logic or verifiable facts. Moreover, two people might disagree about who won the national soccer match in 1990, but if they do some research, the argument would be settled by using a fact. Therefore, arguments of preference, belief or faith, and fact are not the type of arguments one can effectively and logically deal with in the formal argumentative essay.
The kind of argument that can be argued logically is one based on a opinion that can be supported by evidence such as facts. For example, when the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant broke down in 1979, debate ensued concerning the whole issue of nuclear power. Those in favor of continuing the construction of nuclear power plants argued against those who wanted to ban further construction of nuclear power plants argued against those who wanted to ban further construction of the plants. The issue was whether the United States should ban further construction. The proponents (those in favor of the issue banning further construction) said no and gave their reasons. There were definitely two sides to that issue, but more importantly it was an issue that arguable: It was not an argument of belief or faith, preference, or fact.
The Argumentative Thesis: Taking A Stand
Most writing, of course, is improved by having a persuasive edge to the thesis, but for analysis and exposition, that "edge" need not always be sharp. For example, a thesis such as "My first experiences with Americans were traumatic" has a central idea "traumatic" but it is not really strongly persuasive, and it is certainly not argumentative. However, an argumentative essay is one that attempts to be highly persuasive and logical.
What is the difference between a thesis with a strong central idea and an argumentative thesis? To begin with, the argumentative thesis takes a side of an issue; frequently, too, it proposes a course of action (often expressed, by the way, with the modal should). In the argument concerning the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant, the thesis for a paper on this topic might be "The United States should ban further construction of nuclear power plants." Of course, someone else might argue "The United States should continue building nuclear power plants."
When you write an argumentative paper, more so that with expository or analytical essays, you must be acutely aware of your audience - the reader. Remember, the purpose of an argumentative essay is to convince the reader that your position is the better one. To begin with, assume that the reader disagrees with you. After all, if he or she did not , there would be no cause to argue. Next, remember that although the reader disagrees with you, that does not mean he or she is any less intelligent than you. Therefore, avoid attacking the reader with such statements as "Anyone who believes we should ban nuclear power plants must be ignorant or out of touch with reality." Indeed, address your reader by writing objectively, logically, and respectfully.
The most important thing to consider about the members of your audience is why they hold their opinion. What reasons do you think you might use to support their opinion? Trying to identify and understand your opponent's point of view is important; if you do not understand your opponent's reasons and just argue your own reasons, you are not likely to convince the reader at all. For example, say that you felt we should continue building nuclear power plants and give the following reasons:
1. They produce energy at a relatively low cost.
2. They provide renewable sources of energy.
3. They reduce our dependence on foreign sources of energy.
4. They provide immediate jobs.
Your reasons might be very good ones, but these points are probably not the point on which your opposition bases its argument; in fact, your opponents will probably agree with you on these points. At the heart of your opponents' argument is the issue of safety. If you do not address that issue and convince your opponents that nuclear power plants are safe, then you cannot expect to convince them that we should build more nuclear power plants. Once you have argued to the point the opposition holds, then you can further support you case by adding the other reasons mentioned earlier.
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