English 110 2063-2172 Argumentative Essay (15% ofoverall grade)  An effective argument makes a well-supported,well-conside

English 110 2063-2172

Argumentative Essay (15% ofoverall grade)

 An effective argument makes a well-supported,well-considered point about an issue in an attempt to convince or persuadereaders. Convincing involves gaining readers agreement that a position on anissue is reasonable and well founded. Persuading involves getting them to takeaction. (Palmquist 397)

For this assignment, you will choosea topic based on the 19^th century philosopher, William KingdonClifford, and The Ethics of Belief. Uribe points out that Cliffordsphilosophy is perhaps more relevant than ever in our interconnected,AI-driven, digital age.  The topics thatyou can choose are wide and varied. I only ask that it somehow fit intoCliffords philosophy.

A successful argument requiresthat you

1. Take an explicit position.While the use of qualifying words such as many, some, or maybe isacceptable, an explicit position is often easier to argue and will not confuseyour reader.

2. Respond to what others havesaid or done. This is your counterargument.

3. Provide your reader with theappropriate background information.

4.  Give a clear indication of why this topicmatters.

5. As always, provide goodreasons and evidence.

ArgumentativeEssay Criteria

4-6 pages with MLA formatting

Minimum 3 sources – Because weare discussing the ethics of belief, please make sure that your sources are credible.

Essays which receive an A mustcontain the following:

An explicitly stated thesiswhich shares the position the author will take

A contribution to a largerconversation related to The Ethics of Belief

An engaging introduction whichcaptures the readers attention

Background information about thesubject if needed

An authoritative and reasonabletone which is appropriate to your audience and purpose

Ample reasons and evidence tosupport your position

Trustworthy sources withquotations, summaries, and paraphrases smoothly integrated into the text.

(A) skillfully addressedcounterargument(s)

Easy-to-follow organizational patternwith clear transitions

Appropriate style (diction, syntax,level of formality) for the intended audience

A decisive and satisfying conclusion

Remember that your reader, evenif they dont agree with you, should consider your argument plausible.