If you were to argue the legalization of marijuana, would you support its legalization in its entirety, or would you support its legalization with age restrictions in place or medicinal applications being most important?

Argumentation

As human beings, we tend to get into arguments more times than not, whether it’s in class, at work, or at home with our peers, friends, and family. Our opinions, beliefs, and values often clash with others’, but though we argue on a regular basis, that doesn’t make us specialists when it comes to arguing effectively. When being effective in arguing, you must focus not only on your own thoughts but also on those who you wish to influence. Argumentation requires critical thinking, great preparation, and forethought on your part in order to be convincing in your argument. Consider yourself to be a lawyer in a courtroom; not only are you trying to give support to your claim as you present your case to the jury, but you must also anticipate and address the arguments given by the opposing lawyer.

When presenting an argument, there are a variety of ways to go about it. Some forms of argumentation include using facts, examples, referring to authorities, addressing the consequences, and addressing the opposition. A good blend of all of these can help create a comprehensive arguing style. Other persuasive skills include paying attention to your use of persuasive appeals (logos, pathos, and ethos), which should be balanced; an abundant use of one or another can harm an argument.

Most importantly, though, is the need for a clear argument. You will need to not only pick an arguable topic to discuss, but you will need to take a stand on the topic with particular stipulations in place; for example, if you were to argue the legalization of marijuana, would you support its legalization in its entirety, or would you support its legalization with age restrictions in place or medicinal applications being most important? Whatever your argument is, your overall claim will need to be clearly stated and supported throughout the essay. This will be your thesis. You will need to thoroughly illustrate your thesis by utilizing the various argumentative methods mentioned before through quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing. You must also address the concerns of the opposition in an attempt to discredit or diminish their arguments. Lastly, the essay will need to be properly structured—introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion with clear topic sentences (multiple claims supporting your thesis) and transitions throughout.