CT 1-3 (Kim Woods) only

Least 200 words

U1

One of the first steps in learning to think critically will be organizing an argument. This will help in finding main ideas, following a series of logic, and checking on the effectiveness of the argument’s structure. This unit’s discussion will give you a chance to see how you organize can an argument and how you may evaluate the audience for an argument.

 

For this discussion, you will establish an argument with three premises and a conclusion in order to invite a friend or family member to a social event, such as meeting for coffee, attending a local community activity, going to a movie, or having dinner. The conclusion you will want them to reach should be similar to: “You should come with me to X.”

The premises are reasons that support your conclusion. For some friends, they are always up for your suggestions, so they will not need much convincing. However, in this case, you will want to offer three premises that are distinct reasons to make a case that leads them to agree to your conclusion.

 

You’ll study specific ideas to build skills in persuasion, but for now you should devise three premises that can call your friend to action. Think of this friend and what may be most useful in reaching them.

 

Present the argument with three premises, each on one line, then the conclusion at the end. Then follow up the argument by explaining why you selected the premises you did, and how you believe these are the most effective reasons to get your friend to accept your conclusion (and your invitation). Remember to aim for the 200-word count requirement for the original discussion reply. 

 

Premise 1:

 

Premise 2:

 

Premise 3:

 

Conclusion:

 

Explanation:

U2

Confirmation bias can prevent exposure to ideas from another perspective. Sometimes people are concerned that hearing another point of view may be a challenge or a frustration, and so they may seek a path of only listening to those who disagree. As a result, one may become ignorant on an issue because information is avoided. One may refuse to consider another perspective and may “dig in” on their present position, even in the face of contrary evidence, also known as cognitive dissonance. 

 

To answer these questions, you do not need to name a political position on any issue, but generally consider whether the people closest to you agree or disagree with you. 

 

What are some ways that you may stay insulated in perspectives that are similar to your own? How might you benefit from hearing counter-arguments or different points of view? If someone does disagree, how can you conquer confirmation bias or cognitive dissonance in the middle of a discussion, so that you can have a constructive conversation?

U3

For this discussion, you’ll investigate Aristotle’s “Three Proofs”--ethos, pathos, and logos. Aristotle argues that each needs to be in place for an argument to be truly effective. Give one example of where have you seen each method of persuasion used in advertising--either print, online, or in video. 

 

Start by defining each of the proofs using the readings or other research you might add. Use and cite sources to help build your credibility in the definitions. Then put the ideas into your own words. How do you understand these ideas?

 

Introduce one advertising example each for ethos, pathos and logos. Of these three ads, which were effective in their persuasion? Which were ineffective? How can you discern the difference?