Writing an Argumentative Essay
  1. Definition
    1. An argument is a set of propositions (premises) designed to demonstrate that a particular conclusion (thesis) is true
    2. An argument is not simply a statement of opinion, but an attempt to give reasons for holding certain opinions.
  2. Purpose
    1. Unlike the natural sciences and their evidential reasoning that reasonably may lead to one generally accepted answer to any question, in the social sciences there are usually many ways that one can understand, or interpret, what is going on or has occurred
    2. Consequently we must choose which among these possibilities is correct
    3. This choice should be based on a solid understanding of the issues and the evidence
    4. We should be able to give reasons for our choice, our opinion, on that subject. This choice should be based on evidence.
  3. Parts of an Argument
    1. Thesis: that statement which you are trying to prove
    2. Argument: the reasons you give for your conclusion
      1. An argument is considered persuasive if the reasons given are good reasons for the conclusion
      2. An argument is considered unpersuasive if the reasons are not good reasons for the conclusion
    3. Evidence: the concrete "facts" upon which you base your argument
      1. Evidence can be descriptions of events, philosophical concepts, economic statistics, laws, paintings, poems, art works or any other information you have about the subject.
      2. Some of this information you will find in secondary sources, but the best evidence should come from primary sources.
  4. Evaluating an Argument
    1. Is the argument persuasive? That is, does the argument in fact give reasons to believe the thesis?
    2. Are the reasons plausible?
    3. Is there sufficient evidence to support the argument?
    4. Are the examples representative? That is, do the examples chosen truly reflect the situation or were they chosen to exclude evidence which would tend to disprove or complicate the thesis?
    5. Does the argument present enough background information so that the reader can assess the significance of the evidence presented?
    6. Does the argument take into account counterexamples?
    7. Does the argument refute possible objections?
    8. Does the argument cite sources?