For me, when I hear the argument more than the author, it is much easier for me to be convinced. If I know that the author has a history of
being biased, I put up filters almost automatically, and close my mind just a
little. The more historically biased the
author, the harder it is for me to be convinced. Some news networks have this effect on me as
I try to be as unbiased as possible. I do
believe, however, that some audiences like to know the past positions of the
author.
I would say
that I operate more in the analytical school of thought than the rhetorical
school of thought as a reader, because it’s harder to “spin” straight facts and
numbers, so I am more easily persuaded by the factual rather than by fancy
words. While I do love analytical-style
writing, the times that I am most moved, are definitely rhetorically-styled. If an author takes a shot at pulling my
heartstrings, they will fail more times than succeed.
In summary,
I prefer the argument over the author. I
prefer logical, well thought out reasoning to fluffy, twisting, and manipulative
words. I often choose to leave the
author anonymous, because no credentials on Earth will convince me more than an
argument will (but maybe that’s just because I question authority
constantly). I also understand that I am
a very specific type of audience, and most authors shouldn’t target people like
me due to our small number.
While I agree that facts are an important element to an argument, I think it is important to at least know the author's credentials. You don't need the author's life story or a list of their past biases, but the more professional training and life experience they have, the more valid their argument probably is. It is not only important to know what information you are receiving, but whether you are receiving it from a credible source.
ReplyDeleteI think the reason we disagree on this front, is because I don't find credentials relevant in this context. I feel like if I can use research/facts to support my claims, my "degree" and "experience" are irrelevant to my argument. I feel this way mostly because I don't agree with society's way of deeming something "credible". Anyone can argue anything efficiently in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteYou're right in that aspect Matt, but at least the fact that the author has a degree means that he was willing to take X amount of time out of his life (and pocketbook) to try and understand and study the topic at hand. Perhaps the author was part of the phrase "D's get degrees," but this shows that he or she has thought and studied his or her argument
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