An argument is a crucial part to a paper, or discourse in general. For most people it is seen as the focal point for a conversation, debate, speech or paper. This is mainly because the argument is what ever part of a writing should relate too. Everything from figures, quotations, paraphrases, warrants, explanations, even the pathos, logos and ethos should all, in some way, form or manner relate back to an argument. The argument is the main point or idea being presented to the audience, regardless of whom said audience is. And a good argument, in my opinion, consists of at least the three following things; A clear and concise presentation of the core problem at hand, an understanding of how that problem was caused in the first place, and a good, actionable solution for the problem being presented in a manner that allows for modification or debate. To start with the presentation of a problem, to make an argument, a problem is needed, and a good argument can’t be made if the problem being argued isn’t understood. A house cant be built on faulty foundation. Then, in my opinion, the next part needed is an understanding of how this problem was caused and even possibly acknowledgement of fault if needed. If the cause of the problem isn’t understood and actively avoided, the solution is ultimately useless, null and void for all intents. Lastly, is the presentation of a solution, but not making it a rigid, set-in-stone idea. No one is perfect and very few people are able to solve problems on their own. Being able to present a solution or even just most of a solution while being open for discussion and input makes an arguer more amicable and likely to gain support for their idea. For a rather basic idea of what I mean, attached is a picture of my wonderful dogpile, Goldie. She’s a 20-something year old van that I love. However, I acknowledge that for a good chunk of me owning her, I have failed to properly cared for her. But with my current course of study and some help from family and instructors I’ve come to understand what’s wrong with her, and how to fix and avoid those issues in the future. But that isn’t to say that she’s perfect or even great. He has leaks, she’s waterboarding herself and for all intents and purposes wants to move to the great raceway in the sky. But I try my best to ensure she can continue on. And when i have an issue I present it to people I trust and present my ideas as an argument. I explain my problem, how I believe it happened, and the my idea of how to fix her. In recent times I’ve needed less feedback or help but I still do need help. Anyhow, arguments to me are a concise problem, an understanding of how that problem was caused, and an idea to fix said problem.
