Questions for Discussion & Journaling / Applying & Exploring Ideas

Summary

In Stuart Greene's article, "Argument as Conversation", Greene suggests to the reader that using the method of framing is especially effective when researching and trying to convince others to think your way. Greene stresses that narrowing down the topic and focusing in on the main points is vital and will help not only the audience being addressed, but also the student to be more organized in their thought and ideas.

Synthesis

When comparing the authors Greene and Swale, I found that both seem to have relatively the same suggestion to the reader, and that is to basically narrow down ideas and thoughts when researching and/or writing. Greene suggests the method of framing, while Swale calls it occupying a niche. Both are essentially the same concept.

Questions for Discussion & Journaling (pg.20)

2.) I believe that Greene quotes Kenneth Burke's oft-quoted passage because it is a situation that many, if not all of us have been in before. The moment when you or someone else walks in on an argument or heated discussion without any previous knowledge or idea of what is being discussed, until you grab the main idea of the conflict. Greene uses this passage to explain that the argument occurring has probably been argued over before. Therefore, there are already factual answers or responses that help support one of the opposing sides. This previous research, can help benefit oneself when entering a heated debate. Burke expresses how an argument is never really "over", and  how almost anyone who decides to enter an argument probably has some sort of knowledge on the topic being discussed.

Greene relates this to writing by saying that, "learning how to write a researched argument is a process of learning how to enter conversations" (Greene par.5)

3.) Framing is a process in which helps you name your position, explain it, create counter-arguments, and gather ideas together. Greene uses the example of a camera to show how the photographer focuses on a particular subject, which he/she would want to present. Just  like how someone would present their ideas in an argument.

Applying & Exploring Ideas (pg.21)

2.) Greene's article does represent a conversation. He is able to connect with the reader and properly uses the framing technique, especially by inserting quotes and other articles.

Thoughts

I believe that the reading was interesting and that the reader can take a lot from it. The technique of framing can be very helpful when conducting research. It can also be useful in everyday life when you're trying to just organize thoughts and ideas. Greene's suggestion of framing will be especially helpful to me in the near future.