An argumentative essay is a type of essay that presents a clear and debatable claim or thesis statement, and then provides evidence to support the claim. The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to agree with your perspective on a particular topic. In order to do this effectively, it is important to follow a specific structure and include certain elements in your writing.
The following is a template that can help guide you through the process of writing an argumentative essay:
Introduction: This is the opening section of your essay, where you should introduce the topic and provide some context for the reader. You should also state your thesis or claim clearly in this section.
Body paragraphs: These are the main sections of your essay, where you will present your arguments and evidence to support your claim. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect of your argument, and provide concrete examples and evidence to support your points. Make sure to also address any counterarguments and refute them in your body paragraphs.
Conclusion: This is the final section of your essay, where you should summarize your main points and restate your thesis or claim. You should also conclude with a call to action or a recommendation for further action.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you write your argumentative essay:
Use strong, clear language: Be sure to use strong, clear language to convey your points effectively. Avoid using jargon or technical language that may be difficult for the reader to understand.
Use credible sources: In order to support your arguments, you will need to use credible sources of information. Be sure to carefully research and choose reliable sources, such as academic journals, reputable news outlets, and government websites.
Use logical reasoning: Your arguments should be logical and well-reasoned, and should follow a clear line of thought. Use transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas and help the reader follow your argument.
Use rhetorical devices: Rhetorical devices, such as rhetorical questions, appeals to emotion, and repetition, can be effective in persuading the reader to see your perspective. Use these devices sparingly, however, as overuse can distract from your main points.
By following this template and keeping these tips in mind, you should be well on your way to writing a strong and persuasive argumentative essay.
René Descartes was a French philosopher, mathematician, and scientist who is often considered the father of modern Western philosophy. One of his most famous philosophical works is the "Meditations on First Philosophy," in which he grapples with the fundamental question of what can be known for certain. In the second meditation, Descartes considers the nature of sensory experience and the possibility of deception through the famous example of the "wax argument."
In this argument, Descartes considers a piece of wax that has been taken from a beehive. He observes that the wax has certain qualities, such as a certain shape, size, color, and texture. However, when the wax is placed near the fire, these qualities change. The wax becomes softer, its shape becomes more malleable, and its color and texture may change. Descartes concludes that the wax itself, as a substance, remains unchanged, but that its qualities are dependent on the senses and the circumstances under which it is perceived.
This argument serves as a way for Descartes to challenge the reliability of sensory experience. If the wax can appear to have such different qualities depending on the circumstances of its perception, then how can we trust our senses to give us an accurate representation of the world? Descartes argues that the only way to be certain of something is to use reason, rather than relying on sensory experience. This leads him to his famous conclusion, "Cogito, ergo sum" (I think, therefore I am), in which he asserts that the act of thinking is the one thing that cannot be doubted.
The wax argument is a key part of Descartes' philosophy and continues to be a subject of discussion and debate among philosophers today. It raises important questions about the nature of reality and the role of sensory experience in our understanding of the world.
