A Rogerian Argument

Letter from Birmingham Jail a Rogerian Argument Traditional and rogerian argumentation approaches are very different. For instance, a traditional argumentation is more confrontational towards the opponent’s point of view as to rogerian argumentation more negotiable with the opponent’s point of view. Rogerian argumentation creates cooperation, the possibility that both sides might change, and a mutually advantageous outcome. However in a traditional argument the writer seeks to change the opponent 's mind and, as a result, win the argument. The rogerian avoids threats as to in a traditional argument is very aggressive and full of threats. Therefore, Letter From Birmingham Jail written by Martin Luther King Jr. has a language that is structured to follow the rogerian argumentation method, which combats the oppression against humanity. Martin Luther King Jr. establishes common ground by stating the problem (you deplore the demonstrations taking place in Birmingham) and from there he states (It is unfortunate that demonstrations are taking place in Birmingham). Therefore, he laments that they are doing demonstrations and that he knows they do not like the demonstrations but they were not left any other alternative. From this point King goes to discuss his opponents view of the problem by stating (You express a great deal of anxiety over our willingness to break laws) because they are breaking the law with their demonstrations. In response Kings point of view of the problem is (All segregation statutes are unjust because segregation distorts the soul and damages the personality). King makes clear his point of the problem not using a law problem but a problem within his soul. King does state why his opponent would benefit by adopting his viewpoint by stating (Hence segregation is not only politically, economically, and sociologically unsound, it is morally wrong and sinful). The opponent would benefit from all these points but the most important point they would

Cited: Martin Luther, Jr. “Letter from Birmingham Jail”. Why we can’t wait. N.p., 1963.Book 26 July 2013.