1. Chapter 1 Introduction to Argument (From the book Writing Arguments, pages 2 – 22) Mrs. Franklin English 102 February 2016

2. What is Argument? Argument is a tool for persuading an audience to accept a particular point of view. An argument is a search for truth and a desire to resolve complex problems. An argument is a creative and productive activity that engages us at a high level of inquiry and critical thinking. Note that the ability to lay out an argument is independent of one’s personal views. 2

3. An Argument is NOT… A fight or a quarrel. A pro / con debate. A shouting match between two or more individuals. 3

4. Rhetoric Rhetoric is the process of argument through writing or speaking. Rhetoric employs the use of colorful language, figures of speech, or other compositional techniques to persuade an audience. 4

5. Ethos The Ethical Appeal Based on the character, credibility, or reliability of the writer. Use credible and reliable sources to build your argument. Respect the reader by presenting opposing positions in a fair manner. Disclose your personal motivation in making an argument. Organize your argument in a logical manner. Chronological Inductive Deductive Example Vote for me for State’s Attorney because I have worked in the legal profession for 20 years and I am endorsed by every major TV station in town. 5

6. Pathos The Emotional Appeal Focuses on the audience’s needs and emotional sensibilities. Appeals to the part of the brain that controls emotions (i.e. the amygdala) Emphasizes reason that relies on emotion (rather than logic). Use an emotional appeal only if it supports the claim you are presenting. Do NOT use an emotional appeal to misrepresent the topic. Example of pathos Vote for me because my opponent will allow criminals to run rampant on the streets and threaten the safety of your wives and children. 6

7. Logos The Logical Appeal Logos means “thought” plus “action.” Thought = the ideas themselves Action = the way in which the ideas are presented to the audience Logos appeals to patterns, conventions, and modes of reasoning. For example, LaShawn just came from outside. LaShawn’s coat is covered in snow. Therefore, it must be snowing outside. Facts by themselves are not necessarily appeals to logic. For example, the fact that the circumference of the earth is 24,896 miles doesn’t mean that the sun orbits the earth. 7

8. Mythos The Cultural/Religious Appeal Mythos is the sum total of stories, values, faith, feelings, and roles that make up the social character of a people. Assumes that people value their membership in a society and shares its cultural heritage. Uses appeals to patriotism, cultural pride, heroes, and enemies as evidence to support an argument. Much of pop culture appeals to mythos. References to stories with which everyone is familiar are likely to evoke feelings of kinship and connectedness. For example, the notion that America has the best rap artists because rap comes from America. 8

9. Claims A claim is an assertion of something as a fact in support of an argument’s main thesis. A claim is a concise summary (stated or implied) of an argument’s main idea. A claim supports the case for why an argument is true. For example: Kobe Bryant is a better player than LeBron James. Why? For one, Kobe has won more championship rings than LeBron. 9

10. Inductive vs Deductive Reasoning Inductive reasoning goes from specific facts to a general conclusion. (Example) Shontae observed that every time the mail man came to the door her dog barked. Moreover, the dog barked even when a different mail man came to the door. Therefore, Shontae concluded that her dog doesn’t like mail men. Deductive reasoning goes from general facts to a specific conclusion. (Example) Fire is hot and will burn someone’s hand. The stove emits a fire when it is turned on. Therefore, to avoid getting burned do not put your hand over the fire on the stove. 10

11. Implicit vs Explicit Argument Explicit Argument – An argument that is directly stated. It’s meaning is plainly presented and easy to recognize. (Example) Kendrick Lamar is the best artist of the year because he won 5 Grammy awards. Implicit Argument – An argument that is implied. It’s meaning must be derived from the context clues given in the information surrounding the argument. May be represented as a bumper sticker, a slogan, a cartoon, billboard, poster, photograph, t-shirt, or advertisement. Examples: “Yes We Can!” “Black Lives Matter!” “Just Do It” 11