Seduction and the Argument paper

An argument paper is all about showing readers a viewpoint they may not have considered before. The purpose is not necessarily to change the readers’ mind about the topic so much as to have them look at this point of view, realize that it is a valid perspective, that they may want to review the information.

The best way to convince someone of another side is to be clear and specific. The narrower the thesis, the easier it is to prove. Additionally, the more specific in each argument point, or claim, the easier it’ll be to have the reader “buy” that point and then the next one and the next.

How do we convince someone of our point?

Let’s look at something most folks want to do with a persuasive voice—seduction. Put aside trying to get a job (cover letter and resume) or validating a political point. Most folks would like to persuade someone to go home with them.

So how do we do that?

To seduce a person, especially a woman, seduction must begin with the mind. This requires words.

Try going up to a prospective “target” and tell him/her, “I want to bed you. Come home with me now.” Although the direct approach may be refreshing to some people, most folks would find this candor a bit offensive.

Try a different approach: paint a picture. The more descriptive, sensory details, then the more enticing and alluring the perspective. The person will be more inclined to stay a little longer and see what else is to come.

Trying telling the person the following: “I would like to run my fingers through your hair and let my finger tips lightly trace along the side of your face, down your neck, and along the top of your shoulder. I’d like to have my lips hover over your skin on your neck, lightly press against your skin, then hover just above, letting my lips feels the heat from your skin. Then I’d let my lips gently graze your neck, down to where your neck meets your shoulder, letting my lips, warm and soft, kiss your skin.”

To which technique would you succumb? Which would keep you closer to see what’s next?

Now try this technique with an argument topic.

You’re trying to convince people that convicted pedophiles should be mandated to live in very specific locations instead of the distance regulation (not allowed to live within 1000 feet of a school, park, or day care).

The writer could simply stick to an ethical (ethos) argument: Pedophiles prey on children and should not live where they have easy access and view of children.

However, using some emotional appeal (pathos) may add some depth and dimension to the argument: Pedophiles should be required to live in specified areas only. Keeping them from living in a particular radius from where children frequent does not stop them from visiting those areas. A pedophile can still sit at a park or near a school and watch the children play, bending over to pick up toys, running and tumbling, climbing on the equipment, swinging their chubby legs while crossing the monkey bars or kicking their legs while swinging. The pedophile can sit and watch the childen’s round cheeks and broad smiles, listen to their easy laughter and high-pitched squeals. He can dream of taking one home, holding that innocence, trying to lay claim to the sweetness the child exudes.

Which argument would convince you to review pedophiles and zoning regulations?

The more specific and descriptive the writer paints the picture, the more likely the reader will look closer at the topic, spending some time to ponder the point. This technique makes a more convincing argument than straight facts.