( Lesson 6 ) Arguments and Evidence in Writing

Introduction

  • A strong argument relies on credible evidence to support claims and convince readers.

  • Argument: A writer’s stance or main point on an issue.

  • Evidence: Facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, or real-life experiences that validate the argument.

  • Key Idea: Without evidence, an argument is weak; without an argument, evidence lacks direction.

I. Definition of Arguments

  • In academic writing, an argument is often the main idea, also called a claim or thesis statement.

  • Arguments are supported by evidence, which distinguishes strong papers from mere collections of facts.

  • Writers must stake a position and demonstrate why it is reasonable and advantageous.

Examples of Claims with Evidence:

  1. Claim: Legalizing divorce ensures children grow up in safer and happier homes.
    Evidence: High-conflict households harm children’s emotional, psychological, behavioral, and physical health.
    (Sutherland, 2014)

  2. Claim: Homophobic tendencies in earlier Filipino generations stem from Spanish colonialism.
    Evidence: Historical records show some natives did not conform to heteronormative Catholic identities.
    (Torres, 2022)

II. Four Principles of Argument

Arguments can serve different purposes depending on the writer’s goal:

  1. To Inquire

    • Explore complex issues to find the best possible answers.

    • The writer examines multiple viewpoints and forms a position through investigation.

    • Example: Debating the balance between privacy and safety regarding smartphone data.

  2. To Take a Stand

    • Choose a clear position on a controversial topic and defend it with evidence.

    • Key steps:

      • Research opposing views.

      • Support your stance with logic and facts, not emotions.

      • Concede valid points if necessary for balance.

    • Examples of positions:

      • Support: “Public school funding should be increased.”

      • Counter: “Raising the minimum driving age does not necessarily make roads safer.”

  3. To Propose a Solution

    • Focus on identifying a problem and convincing others of the best solution.

    • Steps for a strong solution argument:

      • Define the problem, describe its effects, and identify causes.

      • Provide credible research (facts, statistics, expert opinions).

      • Offer practical, creative, and ethical solutions.

      • Set criteria to evaluate the solution (affordability, effectiveness, fairness).

    • Example: Proposing a rotating schedule to reduce cafeteria crowding.

  4. To Call for Action

    • Go beyond stating an opinion; encourage readers to take meaningful action.

    • Key strategies:

      • Base the call on facts and credible reasoning.

      • Engage readers by connecting the issue to their values and daily lives.

      • Make actions clear, practical, and doable.

    • Examples:

      • “Bring a reusable bottle to school every day.”

      • “Join the school’s environmental club.”

      • “Use social media as a space for kindness, not conflict.”

Evidence in Writing

Definition

  • Evidence is the information or proof used to support an argument or claim.

  • Strong evidence validates the argument, making it credible and persuasive.

  • Choosing the right evidence is essential—weak or irrelevant evidence can weaken your argument.

Types of Evidence

1. Factual Evidence

  • Based on verifiable facts, data, or statistics.

  • Strong because it is objective and measurable.

Examples:

  • Carbon dioxide levels increased from 280 ppm pre-Industrial Revolution to over 415 ppm in 2021 (Mauna Loa Observatory).

  • In 2020, 18.4% of cancer deaths in the Philippines were from lung cancer.

2. Personal Experience (Anecdotal Evidence)

  • Based on stories or experiences from the writer or others.

  • Less objective than factual evidence but can make arguments more relatable and compelling.

  • Works best when combined with statistical or testimonial evidence.

Example:

  • Cobing, a vendor near Davao’s Bankerohan Market, described the challenges of selling on the second floor due to frequent clearing by the ASU.

  • Shows real-life struggles supporting claims about unfair treatment of street vendors.

3. Authority (Authoritative Testimony)

  • Involves citing experts or recognized authorities to support claims.

  • Builds credibility because readers trust well-established sources.

  • Consider the authority’s name, position, affiliation, publication date, and credibility.

Example:

  • David Herring & Rebecca Lindsey (2022): Experts warn that without dramatic action, global warming will exceed 1.5°C, with severe consequences.

  • Based on peer-reviewed reports from the U.S. National Academy of Sciences.

4. Values (Beliefs or Principles)

  • Uses moral principles or widely accepted beliefs to support an argument.

  • Effective when the values are universal and relatable to all readers.

  • Avoid using values that may exclude or discriminate against certain groups.

Example:

  • “Stealing is wrong” (Ten Commandments). Used to support claims about preventing robberies in the city.

Why Choosing the Right Evidence Matters

  • Strong evidence makes your argument convincing and credible.

  • Weak evidence can undermine your stance, even if your logic is sound.

  • Everyday life examples, like persuading parents to borrow a car, reflect the same principles used in academic writing: combine facts, examples, and reasoning effectively.

Tips for Evaluating Evidence

When reading or using evidence, ask:

  1. What is the author trying to prove?

  2. What assumptions are being made?

  3. Do I agree with the argument?

  4. Is the evidence credible and sufficient?

  5. Is anything important left out?

  6. Would including additional evidence strengthen or weaken the argument?

  • Evidence strengthens critical thinking and helps identify hidden agendas in others’ writing.

  • Crafting arguments is a social process—consider the audience and communicate with clarity and fairness.