1. Taken from Nancy Wood’s Perspectives on Argument
Rogerian Argument
Taken from Nancy Wood’s Perspectives on Argument

2. Rogerian argument is used to build common ground and persuade a hostile audience. This method is based on Carl Roger’s psychotherapy techniques of empathetic listening.

3. The Rogerian argument often moves through the following steps:

4. Phase One
Present the issue and suggest why it’s important); explain or summarize the opponent’s argument.

5. Phase Two Acknowledge any valid aspects of your opponent’s argument
Suggest common ground that you share

6. Phase Three
Present your own position, including your disagreement with your opponent’s argument and give support for your views.

7. Phase Four
Show how your opponent’s argument would be more convincing if their argument were modified in ways you suggest
Emphasize the common ground where you and the other writer could agree

8. Other things to keep in mind…
The tone of the argument should be calm, neutral and respectful. It should not be angry or accusatory.
Common ground is finding something to agree about with your opponent. It is building good will, showing that you and your opponent are not that different.