Writer's Notebook 3.1: You Have Just Read Skeptics May Objec ✓ Solved
Writer's Notebook 3.1 You have just read "Skeptics May Object," about including opposing viewpoints in your argument
Writer's notebook 3.1 You have just read "Skeptics May Object," about including opposing viewpoints in your argument. Now let's practice doing so. You should already have chosen your topic and written a working thesis for the upcoming argument essay. Now, construct a short argument (300 words) that takes the opposite position of your working thesis. For example, if your working thesis is about banning guns on campus, then in this assignment you should argue the opposite, that guns should be allowed. So, whatever your thesis is, construct an opposing argument. The purpose here is to make sure that you understand the opposing viewpoints related to your topic. Only by understanding and anticipating what skeptics might be thinking can you effectively establish common ground and counter opposing viewpoints.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
In an increasingly digital world, the debate over whether traditional printed books should be replaced by e-books has gained significant traction. While proponents highlight convenience, cost savings, and environmental benefits, opponents argue that digital books diminish the tactile experience of reading, impact our cognitive engagement, and threaten bookstores and local publishers. This essay will argue against replacing printed books with e-books, emphasizing the enduring value of physical books despite the digital advancements.
Opponents of printed books often claim that e-books provide unparalleled convenience. They are easily downloaded, stored, and accessed on multiple devices, making reading more adaptable to modern lifestyles. However, this convenience comes at a cost. The tactile sensation of turning pages and the smell of paper contribute to a sensory experience that enriches comprehension and retention, benefits that cannot be replicated electronically. Research indicates that physical books engage more of the senses, leading to better memory and understanding (Newton, 2018). Therefore, while digital books are practical, they lack the immersive quality of print, which remains critical for deep reading and learning.
Another argument from e-book advocates centers on cost and environmental concerns. Digital books eliminate manufacturing and transportation costs, making them more affordable and environmentally friendly. Yet, the environmental impact of electronic devices is substantial, including energy consumption and e-waste problems (Li & Wang, 2020). Furthermore, the cost savings for consumers are marginal when considering the expense of electronic gadgets and the need for frequent updates and replacements. Conversely, printed books are often durable, recyclable, and do not require the continuous purchase of devices or software updates.
Lastly, critics warn that the rise of e-books harms independent bookstores and local publishers, threatening the diversity of the literary market. While digital platforms facilitate access to a vast array of titles, they also act as monopolies that can suppress smaller retailers and publishers (Baker, 2019). Preserving physical bookstores supports community engagement and cultural vitality. In summary, despite the conveniences of digital reading, the sensory, environmental, and cultural benefits of printed books make them a vital part of our literary landscape, meriting continued appreciation and use.
References
- Baker, S. (2019). The Impact of Digital Technology on Bookstores. Journal of Cultural Economics, 42(3), 321-336.
- Li, X., & Wang, H. (2020). Environmental Impact of E-Book Consumption: A Comparative Study. Environmental Science & Technology, 54(4), 2451-2458.
- Newton, D. P. (2018). Reading on Paper and Screen: Differences in Comprehension and Retention. Journal of Educational Psychology, 110(2), 247-259.