Essay #4: Writing the argument based on definition and using comparison/contrast structure
Approximately 1000 words
Submit to the Dropbox (see Guidelines)
Due: Week 15
In Malcolm Gladwell’s article “Defining a Racist,” he takes on a difficult, controversial topic and simplifies it for the sake of argument. So often, people are taken to task, often appropriately, for making considered judgments or careless remarks that are apparently racist. Gladwell looks at three notorious “cases” to determine whether or not they are, in fact, examples of racist behavior. In doing so, he provides his own definition of “racist” speech: (1) it “encourages false belief about a targeted group”; (2) it is “intended to wound, or intended to perpetuate some social wrong”; and (3) it has been “the product of considered, conscious deliberation.” Once he has established a definition that appears reasonable and well researched, he considers each case individually and explains whether it does, or does not, appear to have been racist–according to his three-part definition. His argument is very convincing because he has determined the terms of the argument.
In your essay for this unit, you will take on what may be a less controversial topic, and you will also start your essay with a definition–of your own. What is a “healthy” community? Is a healthy community more homogenous or more diverse? Is a community healthier when all residents share common values or when they celebrate divergence? Is it healthier when everyone knows everyone else’s business or when residents’ lives are very private? Are the neighborhood kids obedient or rebellious? Do residents abstain from drinking and smoking or establish separate circles of friends and party? These are just examples of questions that you might consider. Make sure that your definition is a detailed statement of your own!
Topic:
Is the community in which you live a “healthy” place to live or an “unhealthy” place to live? In order to make your argument, you must provide your own detailed definition of “healthy” and demonstrate, with specific evidence, that the community satisfies or does not satisfy your criteria. (You can discuss your neighborhood or the larger city or county; it’s up to you. Make sure to name your community in the introduction.)
Use the point-by-point structure described in this unit’s Writing Guide on “Comparing and Contrasting” to organize your essay. You will be comparing and contrasting your neighborhood to the ideal described in your definition.
Each of your supporting paragraphs will cover one characteristic of your ideal “healthy” community. As you run through these characteristics, you must use at least two sources that you’ve found online or in the library to demonstrate that yours is a legitimate definition that others do or probably would agree with. You will also need concessions and rebuttal–probably distributed throughout the essay–to address those readers who do not agree with your definition or might agree with your definition but not with your judgment about your community’s health. Remember, though: this is your community and you know it well. Use plenty of details and examples from your experience living in this community to support your points.
Your essay must include the following elements:
- A comparison/contrast structure using the point-by-point method. (Comparison/contrast structure and logic are covered in this unit’s Writing Guide.)
- Concessions and rebuttal/counterargument. Some readers will not agree with your definition of “healthy” or they may agree with your definition in part but not with your judgment about your particular community’s health. You can produce these elements in one paragraph near the beginning of the essay, or you can distribute them in your supporting paragraphs.
- Quoted material from at least two sources that help you to define your term and demonstrate that your definition is legitimate (logical, for example, or mainstream). Each quotation must be documented in compliance with MLA guidelines. You will be responsible for locating appropriate sources in the library or online.
- A Works Cited page that complies with MLA 9 guidelines.