Understanding arguments of definition, exactly what it means. Definitions matter. There can be a lot of different definitions for a word or meaning. Words such as, patriotism can cause some problems, like what exactly is patriotism? How can you be a patriot and why is that patriotism and this is not. Each individual has its own definition of words like these, from experiences that have used the word or influences from others. Then there are kinds of definitions, formal definition are what you find in the dictionary. These definitions help you see the principle. Operational definition identify an object or idea by what it does or by what conditions create it, like someone may not meet the technical definition of love unless it is considered wanted, like and passionate. Other conditions define what makes a definition or word. Then there are definitions by example, which define a class by listing its individual members, like a smart phone is an iPhone. These types of definitions have many issues that can be argued. To develop a definitional argument you much formulate a claim which is addressing a question of a definition. Next, crafting a definition, so you developed a claim with a reason followed by a warrant. This will support your new definition and describe why it’s more or less correct. Then, you must match claims to definitions, so once you have formulated a definition that readers will accept you will have to provide evidence. Lastly, considering design visuals to support your argument.
The section I found the most interesting was the "Understanding Arguments of Definition." I thought it was interesting because of the different examples it used to help describe definition arguments. The word patriotism was connected to wearing an American flag "pin" after 9/11. They were saying that you were not showing patriotism when you were not wearing the pin. Obama heard much criticism after he was not seen wearing the pin. However, Obama explained himself and what he thought the definition of patriotism was, but stating it starts as a "gut instinct" and is a "loyalty and love" for the country. Some may disagree with his definition.
I've never had a situation in my life where this would relate to me, but I know of some going on in the government that could connect to this. Such as, all men are created equal...well what about women? Freedom of speech, but then people get criticized for things they have written or said. Also with gay marriage, "marriage is between a man and women," well this is a new century; maybe the constitution needs to be updated.
I really liked the way you explained things in this entry. I think it is easy to understand and would help people get a general idea of what the three main types of definition arguments. I also like how you used the word "love" to describe operational definitions, because the definition of love is different from person to person. I felt that the three conditions that you provided could be argued heavily, which is required by an operational definition, but I think it would provide even a better understanding of what an operational argument would be if you included an example that did not fit the three conditions, such as an unrequited love could be considered not wanted or how I would not describe a love for my family or friend to be passionate. I think the words like and passionate are both words that could be defined as well, however.
ReplyDeleteFor help coming up with an argument of definition, think about arguments you have had before. I do not know about you, but I could think of at least one argument of definition in pretty much all of my arguments.
I agree with what you said about gay marriage, and how the idea of marriage needs to be updated. There are a lot of things that need to be seen in a new light, I believe. Our country needs to adapt in order to insure that everyone is treated fairly, and I am afraid that gay couples or even just gay people are receiving abuse over something that is completely natural to them, which is harsh and unfair. We need to accept things that are different from us, and to let gay people be married if they desire to. So, yes, the definition of marriage should be changed.