Chapter 6: Skeptics May Object

The key to a solid argument is for the writer to facilitate the debate by including rebuttals. When writing an argument, the author should include the possible naysayers and try to not overlook possible points that readers could put criticism on. Incorporating these views (anticipated criticisms) make the argument two sided and then more interesting because it is a conversation.

            Listening to what people say will give the writer insight into how to make his argument stronger because it offers more angles and points to talk about. Listening is useful because anything said in opposition to the writer’s argument can be turned in his favor. He can then overcome what opposes him without the reader thinking that he is ignoring common beliefs.

Ignoring criticism is not the way to go. Like not including what They Say, it is being arrogant, which doesn’t convince the reader to agree with the writer’s view. But including the naysayer can be a problem if the writer can’t overcome the objections being made on his argument. So the writer should include more of the ones he can fight, than of the ones he can’t fight. Including a naysayer can also alienate the reader if a stereotype is used. The reader should avoid absolutes (like “all” and “everyone”). It takes balance.

            The naysayers should be given fair time to speak. This enhances the writer’s credibility, shows respect for the readers, and gives the writer more to talk about. The writer needs to have a thorough argument to persuade readers.

Chapter 5: And Yet

The concepts of this chapter revolved around the idea of clarifying who is speaking. A writer needs to use signals to show who has which point of view, so the reader doesn’t get confused. A writer can better use these signals by reading examples and a reader can better pick up on the signals by using them in her writing. Dramatic changes in tone and word choice are good clues for a reader. The point is to show which view the writer is portraying. Voice markers can make the difference clear when a word like “yet” or “but” is used.

Even though some people frown on using “I”, it is a straight forward and useful tool to show that at that point it is the writer’s opinion. I agree with the books argument because it differentiates the writer’s view from other views. Over using “I” can cause the problem of it looking like you don’t have any solid evidence, so the work is just an empty coating. The center can still be there if the first person pronouns aren’t over used and the writer still uses enough reason and evidence in her argument. The writer needs to be clear when her personal views are being explained and “I” is appropriate way to accomplish this, occasionally. Not using it could result in the reader getting lost on your views. A writer could also use “X argues that ____, and this makes sense because____.” Rephrasing and combining sentences works well this way as it embeds the markers. Evidence can be presented many ways and still be strong.