Part One: Reading and Quick Summary: Read pages 4–6 in Dynamic Argument. In your own words, define the following terms: claim, support, evidence, and explanation. Also, describe how each of these functions as an element of argument.
Claim – A statement that one uses as supporting evidence in an argument.
Support – Statements or claims used as evidence. Support is needed in arguments to make the speaker/writer more believable.
Evidence – Evidence and support are one in the same. They make the speaker more believable.
Explanation – Detailed support and evidence. This is needed in argument for clarifying ideas.
Part Two: Applying the Concepts: Read Michael Crichton’s article on page 593 in Dynamic Argument. Applying the concepts discussed above, answer the questions below in detail.
1) What is your immediate response to Crichton’s argument? How does it make you think and feel? Why? As you read the article, did anything stick out to you?
At first thought, I am intrigued by Crichton’s argument. I have never thought about Environmentalism as a religion but I understand where he is coming from. Nothing specific stuck out to me.
2) What is Crichton’s tone? How does he feel about the topic, and how is he trying to make the reader feel? What is his purpose in trying to make the reader feel that way?
The tone used is very self-assured and confident. Crichton speaks strongly about his view of Environmentalism and he is trying to make me, the reader feel like being an Environmentalist is a bad thing. I think that he is trying to make me feel this way because he feels this way. But that is what should happen, since this is an argumentative reading.
3) What is Crichton’s main claim? Be precise. Does he make any supporting claims?
The main claim is that Environmentalism has become more of a religion and needs to be put back in the right position as a scientific study. Yes, he has supporting claims.
4) How does Crichton support his claim? What evidence (facts, statistics, and reasoning) does he use, and what explanations does he provide? Evaluate the evidence: how well does his evidence support his claim?
He supports his claim by expounding upon the comparison of religion and Environmentalism. As far as evidence and explanations, Crichton mentions how politics are influential to the idea proposed and how Environmentalist think they are superior but in fact are clueless.
5) What reason does Crichton give for not citing his sources? Do you accept this? Does not citing sources help or hurt his argument?
I do not like the fact that this story is not cited. I questioned it when I read about the secondhand smoke and DDT mentioned. I thin not citing the sources hurt his believability.
6) Is Crichton’s argument strong? Why or why not?
Yes his argument is strong. He was very persuasive and convincing.