I was actually really excited when I read this chapter because I was finally on familiar territory. This chapter is what I spent a semester in my English 1C class completing. We learned all about the Toulmin model and different types of arguments, so I felt like I could finally relate to what I was reading! I love learning about the different types of arguments and trying to categorize where I would be placed during my converstations. I tend to fall under the motivational argument in most cases. When using a motivational warrant as the basis for your argument, you must understand the emotional needs of the audience. For example, if you are talking about saving the whales to a bunch of people who actually capture and slaughter whales for use and consumption than no matter how motivational your argument is, it may fall upon deaf ears. But if you are speaking to people who are advocates for saving the whales than they would probably relate more to your argument and as long as you appeal to their emotional needs, you should gain the support you had attempted to garner. I also liked how in this section it spoke about Maslow's needs hierarchy. I actually saved all of my work from my English 1C class, so I was able to get out my pyramid with Maslow's needs hierarchy and refer to it when reading this section. People always joke that I am a hoarder (I have a tough time getting rid of my school work), but in this case, I was quite glad that I had saved it!
Kate
This part of reading also captured my attention the most, because this is so common, but I tend to fall under the authoritative arguments. You make a great point, that when it comes to making the audience connect with you on the emotional level, and have them take your side, it is smart to study the audience, and know who to present specific information to. Your example also reminded me of another example when people who are trying to save the trees, and the go-green move are talking to people who simply don't care for it.
ReplyDelete