Transcript Rogerian Argument - Green Local Schools

Rogerian Argument
Taken from Nancy Wood’s
Perspectives on Argument
• Rogerian argument is used to build
common ground and persuade a hostile
audience. This method is based on Carl
Roger’s psychotherapy techniques of
empathetic listening.
• The Rogerian argument often moves
through the following steps:
Phase One
• Present the issue and suggest why it’s
important); explain or summarize the
opponent’s argument.
Phase Two
• Acknowledge any valid aspects of your
opponent’s argument
• Suggest common ground that you share
Phase Three
• Present your own position, including your
disagreement with your opponent’s
argument and give support for your views.
Phase Four
• Show how your opponent’s argument
would be more convincing if their
argument were modified in ways you
suggest
• Emphasize the common ground where
you and the other writer could agree
Other things to keep in mind…
• The tone of the argument should be calm,
neutral and respectful. It should not be
angry or accusatory.
• Common ground is finding something to
agree about with your opponent. It is
building good will, showing that you and
your opponent are not that different.