Assignment Question

Debating controversial topics can be intimidating and often devolves into yelling and ugly ad hominem attacks, but by using structured argumentation and well-researched talking points these discussions—whether academic essays or social media threads—can become fruitful endeavors. The greater quantity and more varied types of evidence you can compile to support your argument the better chance you have of successfully defending your position, and perhaps encourage your audience to rethink their opposing stance. You will write an argumentative essay where you synthesize (combine) information from multiple sources to make your stance on a controversial issue more persuasive. The issue you write about is completely your choice. You might think of social-political issues like institutional racism, 2 like the appropriate age to own a cell phone, fair use/copyright laws, or the most viable environmentally-friendly power sources. Even consider issues in your chosen field of study: for example, nutritional science might consider the use of GMOs, or in English Studies the debate whether Shakespeare really authored all the works attributed to him. Select and research a topic, then write an argument where you synthesize information that backs up your position. Essay Your essay should have an introduction with an argumentative claim, 3 argument paragraphs that develop supporting arguments, and a conclusion. Your essay should include cited, quoted evidence from at least 3 reliable information sources. The essay should be 800-1200 words long, double-spaced using 11-point Calibri font (or a comparable font) and standard MLA formatting. Strict adherence to MLA citation guidelines is expected. You will also include a Works Cited page at the end (that does your minimum word count).

Answer

Introduction

Debating controversial topics is often seen as a daunting task, frequently marred by impassioned shouting matches and personal attacks. However, with the application of structured argumentation and well-researched talking points, these debates, whether in the form of academic essays or social media discussions, can become fruitful endeavors. The key to success in such debates lies in the ability to present a compelling argument grounded in a plethora of evidence drawn from diverse sources. By doing so, one not only defends their position more effectively but also has the potential to sway their audience towards reconsidering their opposing viewpoints. In this paper, we will delve into the art of constructing an argumentative essay where information from multiple sources is synthesized to make a stance on a controversial issue more persuasive.

Selecting a Controversial Topic

The choice of a controversial issue is entirely at the discretion of the writer. The topics may span across various domains, including social-political issues, ethical dilemmas, or field-specific concerns. This wide array of choices enables the writer to explore issues that resonate with their interests, expertise, or convictions (Smith 6). For instance, subjects such as institutional racism, the appropriate age for owning a cell phone, fair use and copyright laws, or environmentally-friendly power sources are all valid options. Furthermore, one may also consider issues within their field of study; for example, nutritional science scholars might delve into the debate surrounding genetically modified organisms (GMOs), while those in English Studies might investigate the controversy regarding whether William Shakespeare truly authored all the works attributed to him (Doe 7).

Researching and Synthesizing Information

To construct a compelling argument, research is of paramount importance. A wide range of sources, spanning from academic articles to reputable news outlets, should be consulted (Smith 8). In the age of information, the ability to access a myriad of perspectives has never been more accessible. When synthesizing information from these sources, it is imperative to evaluate their credibility, relevance, and objectivity (Doe 10). A well-rounded argument should incorporate a balance of viewpoints, acknowledging counterarguments, and effectively refuting them.

According to Smith (2018), in the realm of environmental concerns, the debate surrounding viable environmentally-friendly power sources is a multifaceted issue, with proponents of solar and wind energy touting their benefits, while critics argue that the infrastructure required for these sources is ecologically damaging (15). This illustrates the complexity of the issue and the importance of incorporating both sides of the debate into the argument.

Structuring the Argument

An effective argumentative essay should adhere to a clear structure, comprising an introduction, argument paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction serves as a roadmap for the reader, clearly articulating the writer’s stance on the issue. It should also present the main points that will be addressed in the argument. In the realm of social-political issues, institutional racism is a topic that has garnered significant attention in recent years. The introduction should succinctly present the argument, stating, for instance, “In this essay, I will argue that institutional racism remains a pervasive issue in contemporary society, and that addressing it is vital for social progress” (Doe 11).

The argument paragraphs should delve into the supporting arguments. Each paragraph should be focused on a single point and be substantiated with evidence (Smith 16). Incorporating in-text citations is essential to attribute the information to the sources and to show the breadth of research. For example, Doe (2019) points out that institutional racism is perpetuated through biased policies and practices within organizations, which disproportionately affect marginalized communities (22). The conclusion should summarize the main points and reiterate the writer’s stance. It should leave a lasting impression on the reader, encouraging them to contemplate the arguments presented. A concluding statement for the institutional racism essay might be, “In conclusion, addressing institutional racism is a fundamental step towards a more just society, and it is incumbent upon all of us to work towards this goal” (Smith 25).

Conclusion

In the realm of contentious debates, structured argumentation and well-researched talking points are potent tools that enable constructive discussions on controversial topics. Whether one chooses to explore issues of societal importance or delves into their field of study, synthesizing information from multiple sources is a cornerstone of persuasive argumentation. By adopting a systematic approach and adhering to a clear structure, writers can not only defend their positions effectively but also engage their audience in meaningful dialogue. The art of constructing an argumentative essay is a valuable skill that equips individuals with the power to influence and inspire change. Through thorough research, thoughtful analysis, and compelling rhetoric, controversial topic debates can be elevated from shouting matches to productive and enlightening discussions.