Week 5_2/10/16_Argumentation:Good or Bad

There certainly is a subtle argument culture around me, unless asked about, one would not really notice. This question definitely opened my eyes and made me think about this, while we would like to think that everyone gets along, that it not the case. Everyone has a difference of opinion. I think what most people tend to argue about it politics and central issues that are often times controversial. One of the things most often said is “do not bring up politics or religion at the dinner table.” I find this to be very true. People tend to argue about things that they are passionate about. While people can argue whether or not sushi is better than pizza, there is not as much meaning behind that as an argument of pro life or pro choice. I believe that there is a spectrum when talking about arguments, based on the content of the argument, it shows the meaning and importance behind it.

            People also tend to argue with people they know. So many friends get in heated discussions with each other in hopes to prove the other wrong and hold the title for who is right in what case. However, people also tend to argue with complete strangers. Some may even find it easier arguing with someone they do not know and even use that to take a personal attack on that person and not feel as bad about it. In my opinion, arguments typically do not accomplish or solve anything. In most cases, one party walks away hurt and upset, or even both. It is useless trying to persuade someone to believe something when they already have such a strong faith in their original opinion. Arguments, while are good to get other thoughts and sides out there, are not helpful in my opinion. Occasionally a good and healthy debate can be productive, but only if both sides are respectful and truly listen to the other and acknowledge the points that the other side is brining up.

            Argumentation is not so highly encouraged in many of my classes. Being a nursing major, most of my classes are science based, and therefore there is not much merit to try and persuade someone else’s opinion, when what would be debated is fact. However, one of my classes is a health care ethics class, and we are encouraged to debate and try to bring up new opinions and thoughts so that the whole class can have a new perspective on the issue. Nevertheless, in that class we are required to bring up a counterpoint or state a point for the other side if we decide to state a new opinion, or we need to say a pro and a con to help further develop the conversation and recognize that there are two or more sides to every topic. My professors generally respond well to argumentation or criticism because I think that they see it as a way to bring about new thoughts on a topic and to help that student learn. Argumentation is an important part of life, and important for growth and knowledge, however it is important to know when to stop and put the debate to rest for a while.