 Writing
the Argumentative The purpose of your research paper is to develop an argument supporting a) a judgment or b) a position on some controversial subject related to the broad social issue you have already identified. Judgment and position (persuasion) are two of the three types of evaluation, each addressing and developing the critical question, why ? Here is a sample thesis for each of the two types of evaluation: A thesis reflecting a Judgment: (Negative point of view): It was wrong for Johnny Cochran to introduce the issue of racism in the Los Angeles Police Department in the 0. J. Simpson murder trial. (Positive point of view): It was fair for the defense to “play the race card “ in the 0. J. Simpson trial. A thesis reflecting a Position/Persuasion: (Positive point of view): The best alternative for peace in Central America is for the United States government to reexamine and revise the role of CIA operations in Guatemala. (Negative point of view): The worst option for influencing the peace process in Guatemala would be for the United States to continue its long history of CIA abuses in that region. Analysis: The judgmental thesis above explores only one factor and criticizes it either positively or negatively. That is to say, the judgmental thesis either supports a factor or it rejects a factor for some reason or criterion. The position/persuasive thesis above implies a careful examination of possible alternatives and chooses the one the author thinks most appropriate. In both cases, the thesis sentences represent the conclusion of the main argument of your research paper. Usually, topic sentences will reflect premises that will support your thesis/conclusion. Go to the Research Paper Instructions  |