Rogerian “Argument” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9knvRXU8zQ Calls for us to redefine our understanding of the purpose of argumentation: Still makes a claim and tries to persuade the audience to accept that claim. BUT aims to do so by connecting to the beliefs and identity of the audience (who in this case should not be thought of as an opponent). The audience should be thought of as a colleague rather than an opponent. It’s a cooperative relationship to work through a point. Let’s look at the guidelines for writing a Rogerian argument.

Traditional Argument vs. Rogerian Approach Traditional argument is aimed at a third party judge: a consumer, a voter, a panel, etc. in an effort to win them over to the speaker’s side. We have all seen the potentially polarizing effects of this kind of rhetoric in politics. Rogerian argument is aimed at the other rhetor with the aim of convincing him to change his mind or to reach an agreement.

The Rogerian Approach to Conflict Resolution Introduction Statement of the problem. Present your argument as a problem in need of a solution, and raise the possibility of positive change. (This strategy can interest an audience who would not be drawn into an argument that seems devoted to tearing something down). Summary of Opposing Views Statement of the views of the opposition. Be as accurate and neutral as possible. Show that you are capable of listening without judging and that you have given a fair hearing to people who differ with you—the people you most need to teach.

The Rogerian Approach to Conflict Resolution Statement of Understanding Concession. Show that you understand that there are situations in which the opponents’ views are valid. Do not concede that their views are always right, but recognize those conditions under which you share their views. Statement of Your Position Explanation of your views. Having won the attention of both the opponents and those who have no position on the issue, your audience is prepared to listen fairly because you have shown that you yourself are fair.

The Rogerian Approach to Conflict Resolution Statement of Contexts Description of situations in which you hope your own views would be honored. By showing that your position has merit in specific situations or contexts, establish that you do not expect everyone to agree with you all the time. Recognize limitations in order to increase the likelihood that your opponents will agree with you at least in part. Statement of Benefits An appeal to the self-interest of those who do not share your views but are beginning to respect them. Conclude by showing your audience how they would benefit from accepting your position. End on a positive and hopeful note.

Criticism of the Rogerian Approach It can be manipulative: “First you get the reader on your side, then you hit ‘em with your own ideas at the end!” Unethical to try to win someone over under false pretenses. It’s too idealistic: reasons they don’t wanna hear you…. People are too driven by their own desires to enter into it with an earnest spirit. People are too hostile, having been burned by smooth-talkers. People are too entrenched in their views.

How Do I Write a Rogerian Argument? The introduction should begin by catching the reader’s interest. Then the writer immediately states the issue or problem and how it impacts both sides, using totally neutral language. The introductory paragraph/s should be comprehensive and long enough to cover the topic and both sides thoroughly

Next In the next part, the writer describes the opposing side, still using neutral language in order not to misrepresent the opposition .The primary purpose of this section is to acknowledge the validity of the opposing side’s support and evidence

And….. In this part, the writer finally has a chance to present his or her argument. However, he or she must again maintain a fair and balanced tone, dispassionately presenting his or her evidence and support. This section of the Rogerian is crucial to the acceptance of the writer’s point of view as valid

Finally…. The final step in the Rogerian process is to find common ground between the opposing sides. The writer should consider alternative solutions on both sides of the problem in order to find a way to compromise. The writer’s primary purpose in this part is to combine the positive ideas for solutions from each side and creatively convince the reader that each side will move toward the middle and meet in a beneficial compromise.