Sunday, September 20, 2009

Argumentation and Letters to the Editor

Well tonight I read I nice essay that described the what I might call "formula" for writing argumentative papers. Especially college writing. In a nutshell, the author claimed that for a argumentative paper to be successful it should have a clear and concise argument that is stated correctly in a non-commanding way. Also "warranties" or evidence for the claim must also be established. Some things need justification such as an opinion, while a mere fact needs no justification. The author also gave examples and definitions of helpful tools needed for having a sound argumentative paper. Such as coming to a potential claim that an opposing person make try to make. Thus, dissolving their claim. And also using words such as occasionally and rarely for those uncertain situations. I enjoyed the essay, with another once-over I think it could definitely help my argumentative writings. To show some examples of arguments against an argument, check this link out http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/letters/ . Under 'Easy Rider' Ruckus you will find people both agreeing and disagreeing with an article that supposedly argued that motorcycles are too loud and are a nuisance in the public eye. Some claim that "loud pipes save lives" which I believe is plausible because drivers sure pay more attention if they can hear the motorcycle passing them. Others say that the same people who want loud pipes for safety also argue against the helmet law. While any of these could be legitimate, none provide evidence or warranty, they simply state their opinion.

Personally I believe that modifications done to ones' motorcycle is perfectly legal and is up to their discretion alone. Besides most aftermarket exhaust pipes are street legal and meet standard noise and exhaust requirements. This might come from my affection towards motorcycles and owning a dirt bike myself, but I stand fast to my opinion. Thanks for reading!

1 comment:

  1. one thing you want to watch out for is that while facts don't need "justification," facts do not interpret themselves. For example, fact:the sky is blue. what the color of the sky tells us is a slightly different story. So, be sure that when securing your warrent (I was taught warrent, not warrenties) for your argument your "fact" is strong enough or clear enough to support your argument.

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