The difference between implicit and explicit arguments is the method by which each attempts to persuade the audience. An explicit argument seeks to attack a problem head on, forcing the audience to believe through sheer logic and reason. The arguer outlines every aspect of the argument through use of words, showing step by step the reasons he or she believes what they do. In an implicit argument, the arguer uses more subtle forms of persuasion. Through images, sounds, or indirect written or verbal means of communication, the arguer tries to gently shift the listener’s viewpoint. A video showing the carnage of whaling does not directly outline why whaling is wrong, but elicits a visceral response turning people off to the idea of killing whales for profit. The poem on pages 5 and 6 is a written work, but it does not list the casualties of war, or list the reasons war is wrong. It simply depicts the horrors of war, letting us know subtly that the writer thinks war is an abomination. The picture on page 5 is another implicit argument, giving many visual cues about the honor and pride one gains from serving the country. It is not an ad for potential recruits and does not extol the virtues of service. It simply shifts the subtle opinion of a viewer, letting them view the sense of accomplishment one gains from the military.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
2 comments:
First of all, you provide a better (and more importantly) a more succinct version of this than the book. I foresee a future in textbook writing.
Also, I really like your example of implicit arguing with the video of the carnage of whaling. I have been in a situation where I used such an item (imagine that!) and it worked very well for me. Better, in fact, than the explicit arguing.
Maybe your next post should be about how a lagoon is not an ocean.
Post a Comment