Argumentation: Functions and StrategiesI. Functions of argument

Argumentation: Functions and Strategies
    Today we shall talk about the functions and strategies of argumentative writing.
    Do you know someone who enjoys a good argument? Such a person likes to challenge any sweeping statement we might make. For example, when we say something like, "Ms. Lucci doesn’t grade fairly," he or she comes back with, "Why do you say that? What are your reasons?"
Our questioner then listens carefully as we state our case, judging if we really do have solid evidence to support our point of view. We realize that saying, "Ms. Lucci just doesn’t, that’s all," sounds weak and unconvincing, so we try to come up with stronger evidence to back up our statement. Such a questioner may make us feel uncomfortable, but we may also feel grateful to him or her for helping us clarify our opinions.
    So the functions of augmentation are obvious. You can use argumentation to make a point in a class discussion, persuade a friend to lend you money, or talk an employer into giving you a day off. Becoming skilled in clear, logical reasoning can also help you see through faulty arguments that others may make. You’ll become a better critic of advertisements, newspaper articles, political speeches, and the other persuasive appeals you see and hear every day.
    Next we will look at the five strategies you can use in advancing an argument.
    1. Use Tactful, Courteous Language
    In an argumentation essay, you are attempting to persuade readers to accept your viewpoint. It is important, therefore, not to anger them by referring to them or their opinions in rude or belittling terms. Stay away from sweeping statements like "Everybody knows that..." or "People with any intelligence agree that..." Also, keep the focus on the issue you are discussing, not on the people involved in the debate. Don’t write, "My opponents say that orphanages cost less than foster care." Instead, write, "Supporters of orphanages say that orphanages cost less than foster care." Terms like my opponents imply that the argument is between you and anyone who disagrees with you. By contrast, a term such as supporters of orphanages suggest that those who don’t agree with you are nevertheless reasonable people who are willing to consider differing opinions.
    2. Point Out Common Ground
    Another way to persuade readers to consider your opinion is to point out common ground—opinions that you share. Find points on which people on all sides of the argument can agree. Perhaps you are arguing that there should be an 11 P.M. curfew for juveniles in your town. Before going into detail about your proposal, remind readers who oppose such a curfew that you and they share certain goals: a safer city, a lower crime rate, and fewer gang-related tragedies. Readers will be more receptive to your idea once they have considered the ways in which you and they think alike.
    3. Acknowledge Differing Viewpoints
    It is a mistake to simply ignore points of view that conflict with yours. Acknowledging other viewpoints strengthens your position in several ways. First, it helps you spot flaws in the opposing position—as well as in your own argument. Second, and equally important, it gives the impression that you are a reasonable person, willing to look at an issue from all sides. Readers will be more likely to consider your point of view if you indicate a willingness to consider theirs.
    There are several techniques to acknowledge differing viewpoints.
    One effective technique is to cite the opposing viewpoint in your thesis statement. You do this by dividing your thesis into two parts. In the first part, you acknowledge the other side’s point of view; in the second, you state your opinion, suggesting that yours is the stronger viewpoint. For example,
    Although some students believe that studying a foreign language is a waste of time, two years of foreign-language study should be required of all college graduates.
    Another effective technique is to use one or two sentences (separate from the thesis) in the introduction to acknowledge the alternative position. Such sentences briefly state the "other side’s" argument. For example, "Many people argue that working can be a valuable experience for the young."
    A third technique is to use a paragraph within the body of your essay to summarize opposing opinions in greater detail. To do this successfully, you must spend some time researching those opposing arguments. A fair, evenhanded summary of the other side’s ideas will help convince readers that you have looked at the issue from all angles before deciding where you stand.
    4. When Appropriate, Grant the Merits of Differing Viewpoints
    Sometimes an opposing argument contains a point whose validity you deny. What should you do then? The strongest strategy is to admit that the point is a good one. You will lose credibility if you argue against something that clearly makes sense. Admit the merit of one aspect of the other argument while making it clear that you still believe your argument to be stronger overall.
    5. Rebut Differing Viewpoints
    Sometimes it may not be enough simply to acknowledge other points of view and present your own argument. When you are dealing with an issue that your readers feel strongly about, you may need to rebut the opposing arguments. To rebut means to point out problems with an opposing view, to show where an opponent’s argument breaks down.
    A rebuttal can take two forms. (1) You can first mention all the points raised by the other side and then present your counterargument to each of those points. (2) You can present the first point raised by the opposition and rebut that point, then move on to the second opposing point and rebut that, and so on.
    To sum up, we have known about 5 strategies in advancing an arguement. I hope you can use them in your arguement and develop new ones of your own.