The goal for this class is to better understand the ancient, yet still relevant, art of argument. Today’s cultural and political context is flooded with every type and every skill level of argument. Easy access to online social forums and other technologically mediated forms of communication means we can both gather and disseminate information at a dizzying rate. So, in this class, we will work on gaining skills that will help us sift through the good, bad, and the ugly. This means that we will dissect arguments from multiple sides, political perspectives, religious views, etc… Understanding argument does not mean just agreeing with those whose words you find compelling. We all have agendas, and we need to understand how to productively work with others’ and our own biases in order to produce thoughtful arguments and critiques.
The 2nd part of this class has to do with power. Power is all around us in many forms, some obvious and some not. Through theoretical readings, we will explore how power is produced and maintained, as well as what that means for the production and consumption of arguments. We always argue from a certain vantage point that is not entirely of our own making. These discussions will have interesting implications for the self and identity, so be prepared.
As you might have gathered, this class will be dealing with common controversial arguments. It is expected that you attend class willing to discuss these topics in a mature yet engaged manner. An openness to having your views challenged certainly helps.

It is assumed that the student will have taken an introductory level expository writing class (109/110, 111, 121, 131) or has equivalent experience. This is an intermediate level writing class, which means that we will be building on skills begun in those introductory courses. However, just like any other skill, writing is an ongoing process that does not end when the quarter is over. I expect you to be open to constructive challenges and critique given in order to push you as a writer and arguer.
Required Texts: Course Packet (Ave Copy Center)
Readings will include excerpts from Michel Foucault, Mikhail Bakhtin, Laura Micciche, Lloyd Bitzer, James Jasinski, Stephen Toulmin, Richard E. Vatz, and several online sources. This list is subject to change.

Prerequisites:

While 281 has no formal prerequisite, this is an intermediate writing course, and instructors expect entering students to know how to formulate claims, integrate evidence, demonstrate awareness of audience, and structure coherent sentences, paragraphs and essays. Thus we strongly encourage students to complete an introductory (100 level) writing course before enrolling in English 281.