Blog #2: Where does arguing get you?

A. My original notion of the term argument is a word to describe fighting between two different people over trivial or extremely important issues. I looked at argument as angry debate for the purpose of convincing the other side of your correctness. However, Wood describes argument, in simpler terms, as “…making a claim (expressing a point of view on an issue that is communicated by the arguer) and supporting it with reasons and evidence to convince an audience to change the way it thinks about the issue (Wood 4-5). With this definition I can see that the need for anger is irrelevant and possibly the only emotion needed is passion by each involved for their particular interest. This chapter helped me to understand better how to approach argument, what issues to debate, and what audience I would have the best chance to find a common ground with, or even convince them of my point of view. “Effective argument requires the establishment of some common ground…If two parties are too far apart and share no common ground they usually do not understand one another…” (12), this illustrates that no matter how eloquent the speaker or writer, if there is a huge gap in understanding argument is nearly pointless. I now understand better that I must present my argument in relation to my audience and in a tone that does not attack or exclude anyone, in an attempt to be most convincing.

B. I decided to select the magazine NEWSWEEK based on my personal interest in current events and politics; just as I selected my major of political science for much the same reasons. This particular issue has many interesting topics discussed throughout the magazine, including an insightful look into the world of FACEBOOK, the ever-growing networking site created by a former college student. Also, there is an in-depth look at IEDs (improvised explosive devices) in the Iraq War. This article describes the chaos and fear gripping the lives of all those involved with the Iraq War and the highly unconventional tactics used by the insurgents.