Arguing for Argument

An argument may be found at any moment at any time, and each one comes in its own form. Therefore, it is vital that we have the ability to identify the argument and discern where the speaker’s point of view is, and whether or not their claims should be sanctioned.

Claiming:

All arguments begin with a claim in which the speaker will detail all of the research they have compiled to reinforce the idea. The North Carolina Writing Center recognizes two essentials in every argument “1. Proof that you understand the material,” and “2. A demonstration of your ability to use or apply the material in ways that go beyond what you have read or heard.” An important aspect that is related to the first point is to refrain from what is known as the “‘information dump.’” Although showing an extensive amount of knowledge on a topic proves that you have researched and are well informed it may also be interpreted as recitation rather than interpretation. The concept of presenting the argument on your own terms goes hand in hand with the second point in which you as the writer may perceive the topic in a distinct manner that only you can argue.

Evidence:

Besides having a solid argumentation point evidence is a crucial element of any argument. When arguing everyone has the ability to state their opinion, but can you do so in a credible manner? Collecting evidence may seem daunting but keep in mind that an argument can be proven in numerous ways, “Find out what counts as proof that something is true in that field. Is it statistics, a logical development of points, something from the object being discussed (art work, text, culture, or atom), the way something works, or some combination of more than one of these things?” As described in The North Carolina Writing Center it is important that a writer or presenter recognizes their audience and what types of evidence or presentation may sway their opinion in your favor.

Audience:

An audience is present in all arguments whether it be online, in person, or over phone communication.  So an audience member should never be underestimated due to their capacity to argue and critically analyze your claim. As you compile evidence, you should be aware of the counter-argument that your audience may formulate as introduce your research.  An important rule to live by when arguing is to understand someone else’s logic and how they might interpret your point. The North Carolina Writing Center has a list of tips to assist a writer as they try and take another position, “Do some research. It may seem to you that no one could possibly disagree with the position you are arguing, but someone probably has,” “Talk with a friend or with your teacher. Another person may be able to imagine counterarguments that haven’t occurred to you,” and “Consider your conclusion or claim and the premises of your argument and imagine someone who denies each of them.” Understanding and respecting your audience is the best way to remain objective, and remove a defensive attitude in your claim that may reflect a lack of credibility.

In all previous points we have focused on how to make a proper argument and how to cater to our audience. Although it is crucial to consider our audience in any argument, it is equally important that we maintain our voice in our claim.  Our voice reflects a distinctiveness to our writing that can only be managed by ourselves. As stated in The Real World Reader there are six key steps when analyzing voice, but the first three truly outline the importance of voice. The first step tackles the concept of finding one’s voice, “What overall impression does the writer convey?” The overall impression of a writer when making an argument is typically acknowledged in their claim because that is where the audience gets a sense of what the author stands for. Step two is focused on the actual assessment of the writer’s voice, “Does this style off seem appropriate for the occasion?” Step two is directly related to the audience because it is where the author will consider what they are saying, who they’re saying it to, and how they are saying it. The third step relates to actually expressing the voice, “what specific elements in the text (e.g., words, phrases, sentences, and paragraphs) best help convey the writer’s style?” The third step is the most difficult as you present your argument you have to focus on the best method to state your opinion to your audience while maintaining the integrity of your voice.

Remember to write with a purpose, with evidence, and most importantly with personality!

Works Cited:

Miller, James S. The Real World Reader: A Rhetorical Reader for Writers. Oxford University Press. 2016.

Writingcenter.unc.edu, writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/argument/.