For essay 3, write a Rogerian argument. A Rogerian argument is especially useful when addressing issues that are controversial enough that it is difficult to persuade an audience of your own views. Additionally, the Rogerian argument attempts to have disparate perspectives work together and to embody the spirit of compromise. In this way, a Rogerian argument better approximates the negotiation inherent in solving real-life differences than more standard argumentation styles. The following are the characteristics of Rogerian argument:
• The proposition (meaning the argument you are proposing) avoids a confrontational stance by establishing respect for and common ground with the opposition (opposing view).
• The proposition appears reasonable and understanding (and thus credible) because you appear willing to modify your views to accommodate other perspectives.
• The Rogerian essay ultimately works toward a compromise or workable solution.
For your Rogerian argument, I would like you to tackle an issue that you have identified while working on Essay 2. You will need to incorporate sources, and of course, if it makes sense, you can use those sources you located for Essay 2
On the following page is an explanation of the specific format of a Rogerian argument and essay requirements.
I have also included on ilearn the following helpful examples that I have annotated with guiding comments:
Gates Foundation Article: This is a journalistic example. This article, acknowledging that the public highly respects the Gates Foundation’s global health charity, introduces the idea that the Gates Foundation may be misguided in some of its philanthropic endeavors. In the article are examples of the foundation’s beneficial work and also instances where Gate’s agenda might conflict with the real needs of countries. The author discusses other large philanthropic endeavors and proposes legislation that will better guide the work of large charitable organizations and make their agendas more transparent.
Electric Car – Student Essay: This is a rather short Rogerian essay with sources about the viability of electric cars written a few years ago by a student. The essay evaluates the viability of electric cars on four criteria. Finding electric cars lacking in terms of the stated criteria, the author suggests that, while heading in the right direction, electric cars need more time to develop into viable green vehicles, and calls for more research into those criteria.
Rogerian Argument writing center handout: This handout contains some insight into the philosophy and formatting of Rogerian essays and provides a short example essay without sources that demonstrates how a Rogerian essay’s different sections interact to create the argument.
ROGERIAN ARGUMENT
1. Introduction: The issue you want to address is objectively defined and explained in the introduction. It is important for the writer to explain the context and historical background of the issue. You could use sources in this paragraph to explain the issue. As in other argumentative essays, a thesis statement delineating the points of your stance is required, but this thesis statement will also acknowledge the opposing view.
2. Presentation of the opposition’s view: In this section, the writer should present the opposing viewpoint by providing details about how and why it is valid in some contexts. It is important for the writer to use a neutral and non-judgmental tone in this section. Sources and examples that explain the opposition’s point of view are required.
3. Presentation of the writer’s view: This section presents the writer’s own views in a neutral manner. It is also important to present the contexts in which this view is valid. Sources and examples that explain the writer’s point of view are required.
4. Analysis of both views: This is where the writer evaluates what the two sides have in common and what values both share. Here, the writer can ask the following question: “On what can my opponent and I agree on?” Sources and examples / explanations required.
5. Proposal of a solution / conclusion: This solution should take into account the interests and concerns of both sides. This conclusion should explain how the proposed solution will satisfy both sides. If relevant and available, sources that attest to the viability of your proposed solution are helpful.
6. Reference List
In alphabetical order (author’s last name) correctly reference sources used in the paper.