In this discussion, you have the chance to discuss argument as a means of communicating and a way of eliciting emotion.
To get you started, think about the questions below:
What are the images that come to mind when you think of an argument–two people yelling at each other after a fender bender; a reality show with opposing “camps” dueling for “immunity”; a courtroom drama with a public defender and a district attorney making their closing statements; the chambers of a city council or a school board with citizens duking it out over a proposed change that will affect their way of life or that of their children; a well-crafted letter to the editor?
When you think of argument, what emotions do you experience?
Can you explain why you react as you do to the notion of argument?
Would your reaction change if you consider written argument instead of spoken argument?
When was the last time you expressed yourself passionately in writing about your position on a topic? Why did you feel compelled to do this, and how successful were you in doing so?