1. Structuring and Analyzing Arguments: The Rogerian Model
AP English 11

2. Rogerian Model
Developed by psychologist Carl Rogers (also in the ’50s)
Emphasizes problem-solving and/or coming to a consensus
Unlike in Classical argument, this is not an argument to win; instead, emphasizes a “win-win” solution benefiting both parties
Useful in psychological and emotional arguments, where pathos and ethos dominate.

3. Benefits of Rogerian Argument
Allows the author to appear open-minded or even objective
Appropriate in contexts where you need to convince a resistant opponent to at least respect your views

4. Rogerian Arguments:Structure
Introduction: statement of problem to be solved or question to be answered
Summary of Opposing Views: described using a seemingly objective persona
Statement of Understanding: concedes circumstances under which opposing views might be valid
Statement of Your Position (Thesis, Assertion, Claim, etc.)
Statement of Contexts: describes contexts in which your position applies/works well
Statement of Benefits: appeals to self-interest of readers who may not yet agree with you; demonstrates how your position benefits them

5. Practice
See if you can go through the Rogerian framework with the following issue:
The cell phone policy in VBCPS