Writing Arguments: Types of Argument

Writing Arguments

Types of Argument

When you are writing an argument paper, you will either write an Aristotelian argument or a Rogerian argument. Let’s break down the details of these two argument styles:

Aristotelian
Rogerian

An Aristotelian argument sets out to confirm a position in an argument or refute an existing argument. You, as the writer, want to persuade the readers of your point of view. By using logic, research-supported claims, and clear wording, you try to persuade the readers to change their point of view or belief on a topic.

The Rogerian argument tries to reach common ground between two opposing parties. With this type of argument, the goal is not to entirely persuade one party to believe the point of the view of the other party. Instead, the Rogerian argument focuses more on a compromise. By using neutral wording, providing a close examination of both the pros and cons of the argument, and proposing a resolution, you develop an effective Rogerian argument.

Let’s say you are tasked with writing about whether there should be an increase in taxes to fund national parks across the United States. If you were writing an Aristotelian argument, your thesis statement would clearly state your opinion: YES or NO. Then, you would provide researched evidence to persuade the readers.

However, if you were writing a Rogerian argument, you would find a common ground about the topic, addressing both sides of the issue in the thesis statement.

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