The Rogerian Argument Framework Organizational Structures and Features

The Rogerian Argument Framework TWO BASIC ORGANIZATIONS You will learn The Rogerian Argument Framework OBJECTIVES Develop an argument thesis about controversial issues Describe the strengths and limitations of opposing viewpoints Use evidence and reasoning to back up your thesis You will strengthen your argument because readers will see you as fair-minded and knowledgeable You will deepen your understanding You might even alter your position, either slightly or radically To explore two or more sides of a controversial topic PURPOSE To argue fairly and reasonably for one side over the others ARGUMENT FEATURES INTRODUCTION: states the issue being debated, identify the issue’s two or more sides, and usually offers an explicit thesis that the argument will support TWO BASIC ORGANIZATIONS Opposing positions are described upfront; then your own position is explained Introduction You make a point-by-point comparison, explaining why your position is better than others Summary of opposing positions, including strengths Major point of difference Opposing positions Your position OBJECTIVE SUMMARY of opposing views, including their strengths POINT-BY-POINT DISCUSSION of the limitations of opposing views Limitations of opposing positions Major point of difference Opposing positions Your position SUMMARY of your viewpoint and your understanding of the issue Your understanding of the issue, describing both strengths and limitations of your position Major point of difference Opposing positions Your position POINT-BY-POINT DISCUSSION of both strengths and limitations of your position, arguing overall that yours is superior Reasons your understanding is better than the opposing views’ understanding CONCLUSION that drives home your thesis and looks to the future Conclusion