1. Don’t hate on your audience.
Rogerian Argument
Don’t hate on your audience.

2. Rogerian Argument Seeks to establish trust and find COMMON GROUND.
Assume that audience &/or opposition is made up of REASONABLE people. This is, unfortunately, not always true. Therefore, Rogerian argument is not always the best approach.
Seeks to UNDERSTAND the point of view of those with whom they disagree
To start a DIALOGUE or DISCOURSE
BOTH/AND instead of EITHER/OR
WIN/WIN instead of WIN/LOSE

3. How to use Rogerian Argument
Here is an example of what a Rogerian argument might look like:
Intro – sets context
Summary of Opposing Views*
Statement of Understanding*
Statement of Contexts
Statement of Benefits
Important parts/pose a solution – here is where you “concede” something to the opposing side and acknowledge that others who think differently from you are also intelligent, reasonable people.

4. Things that happen in a Rogerian Argument
Speaker/writer shows (sympathetic) understanding to the opposition.
Speaker/writer demonstrates that those who disagree with them are still reasonable, intelligent people of good will (not fools and idiots).
Speaker/writer is non-confrontational, even friendly (not “my way or the highway”).

5. Phases of Rogerian
Phase One: Present the issue and suggest why it’s important; explain or summarize the opponent’s/other perspectives on this particular issue in NEUTRAL language
Phase Two: Acknowledge any valid aspects of your opponent’s argument as well as drawbacks in NON-CONFRONTATIONAL language
Suggest common ground that you share

6. Phases of Rogerian
Phase Three: Present a solution; show how both parties will have to concede as well as how both parties will benefit; emphasize the common ground where both could agree
Writer creates cooperation, the possibility that both sides might change, and a mutually advantageous outcome.

7. To Review… State the problem or issue.
Give the both sides of issue. Grant some validity to parts of it. Recognize circumstances where it could be acceptable.
State YOUR position, support it, and tell why the opposition will be IMPROVED by embracing your views. Why will the world be a better place for this?

8. Rogerian Draft Assignment
Topic: NHS case study on class page
Present both sides of the argument in non-confrontational language and then propose a solution.
Submit your draft to Turnitin by 6am