Argument: Rogerian Developed by psychologist, Carl Rogers, in the 1950s Attempts to reach common ground between the speaker and the audience When composing a Rogerian argument, the author/speaker is asked to consider an issue from a new perspective, that of the opposition. Allows the author/speaker to appear open-minded, or even objective The goal is not to WIN; it is to reach a new understanding. The focus with this type of argument is on problem-solving.

Layout of Rogerian Argument I. Introduction II. Summary of Opposing Views Statement of Understanding III. Statement of Your Position Statement of Context IV. Statement of Benefits

Introduction State the problem you hope to resolve. By presenting your issue as a problem you raise the possibility of positive change. Often opponents will want to solve the same problem.

Summary of Opposing Views As accurately and neutrally as possible, state the views of the people with whom you disagree. By doing this you show that you are capable of listening without judging and have listened to people who think differently from you. Statement of Understanding

Statement of Understanding Also called the statement of validity Having summarized views different from your own, you now show that you understand that there are situations in which these views are valid. In other words, you are offering a kind of concession. You are not conceding that these views are always correct, but you are recognizing that there are conditions under which you share the views of your opponents.

Statement of Your Position Now that readers/listeners have seen that you have given full consideration to views other than your own, they should be prepared to listen fairly to your views. State your position. Statement of Contexts

Statement of Contexts Describe situations in which you hope your views will be honored. By showing that your position has merit in specific contexts, you recognize that people will not agree with you all of the time. The limitations you recognize increase the likelihood that your opponents will agree with you at least in part.

Statement of Benefits New Understanding Contains a thesis that establishes a compromise between the two points of view and represents concessions from both the writer and opponent. Show how opponents would benefit from accepting your position; then the essay’s ending is positive and hopeful.