Chapter 12: Introduction to Argumentation and Research in School and at Work
Chapter Learning Outcomes
In this chapter, you will learn how to do the following:
- Create a persuasive argument.
- Synthesize source material into workplace documents and reports.
At work, you might find yourself in situations where you encounter resistance to your idea, especially if you try to persuade your company to purchase a high-cost item you consider necessary. Using solid research can be your only way of persuading upper management to approve that expense in such situations. Research can help you prove that the expense is justified and that it is likely to lead to substantial advantages short-term or long-term. Being able to assess, by using your critical thinking skills, what types of sources you should use to make your argumentation most compelling is essential. To this end, you’ll have to analyze your audience and carefully consider their needs.
Before we begin, consider the following questions:
- Have you ever argued with someone online? If so, how did you present your argument? Was your argument successful?
- How do people create arguments in your area of study or career path? Are there certain ethical rules that people in your industry must follow?
- How do people argue in your culture? Do you argue with everyone the same way (an elder vs. someone your age)?
- Do you think it’s possible to change someone’s mind using logic?
- Do you find it easier to create an argument in writing or orally? Why?
Chapter Sections
Chapter Acknowledgements
This chapter has been adapted from the following text:
Business Writing For Everyone by Arley Cruthers is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.
