Sunday, October 17, 2010

Rules For Writers Chapter 47 Summary

     Diana Hacker explains the mechanics of reasonable arguments in chapter 47 of "Rules or Writers".
The goal of constructing reasonable arguments is to bring the readers closer to the author's frame of mind. The reasonable argument presents a viewpoint and then supports that viewpoint by asking reasonable questions and presenting facts or data to support the author's argument. The author should focus on the argument from different points of view by adding elements of social and scientific reasoning to the subject.
     It is suggested that the author views the argument from the point of view of many different types of people in the audience such as doctors, lawyers, social workers etc. look at the data, does it prove the argument through answering questions through different areas of expertise? Does it seperate the subject from a path that is still questioned? Or does it leave room for many more questions. Reviewing the answers and delegating them in such a way as to capture all the reasonable minds is imperative for supporting your subject. This can be done by using illustrations or citing expert opinions.
    It is responsible of the author to bring into the argument all the opposition if they can as opposed to alienating readers. Using the right wording or symbols can be powerful in connecting with everyone that will be reading your argument.
    For some reason when I write my essays  first draft I'm not considerate of the audience. When I go back and reflect on the papers I write I spend a lot more time on what evryone will think about my subject, how it is supported and how I can involve everyone in looking at the subject through my eyes.

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