I have to write an argument in standard form before writing an essay on it. I'm using an article written by Jenny Price on news.wisc titled "Facebook profiles raise users' self-esteem and affect behavior"
And here's what I have for the standard form, I just need to know if it makes any sense because I'm not sure about it at all, especially the conclusion:
1) Facebook profiles create an ideal version of self to show society
2) An ideal version of self creates a higher self-esteem
3) Self-esteem boosts are accompanied by a lower level of motivation
4) ∴ Facebook contributes to a lower motivation level
5)Motivation is needed to complete basic tasks.
∴ Facebook results in lower productivity
Your standard argument form seems to make logical sense. Here's a breakdown of the structure and an evaluation of each premise:
1) Facebook profiles create an ideal version of self to show society.
This premise suggests that users on Facebook tend to curate and present an idealized version of themselves to the public. It is a common observation on social media platforms.
2) An ideal version of self creates a higher self-esteem.
Based on psychological research, having an idealized version of oneself can lead to an increase in self-esteem. People tend to feel better about themselves when they present their positive aspects to others.
3) Self-esteem boosts are accompanied by a lower level of motivation.
This premise implies that when individuals experience an increase in self-esteem, they may become less driven or motivated to engage in tasks that are perceived as challenging or require effort. This is a general concept in psychology known as the "self-enhancement" theory.
4) ∴ Facebook contributes to a lower motivation level.
By linking premise 1, 2, and 3, you are suggesting that Facebook, due to its tendency to create an ideal version of oneself and increase self-esteem, contributes to a lower motivation level as a result. This conclusion follows logically if the previous premises are true.
5) Motivation is needed to complete basic tasks.
This premise states that motivation is crucial for individuals to accomplish basic tasks, which is generally accepted as true.
∴ Facebook results in lower productivity.
Applying premise 4 and premise 5, your conclusion follows logically. If Facebook leads to lower motivation, and motivation is necessary for productivity, it can be argued that Facebook usage leads to lower productivity overall.
Overall, your argument seems coherent and follows a logical sequence. However, keep in mind that this analysis solely evaluates the structure and logical consistency of your argument, without assessing the accuracy of the specific claims or the article you mentioned. Make sure to critically assess and support each premise with evidence to strengthen your argument in your essay.
Your argument in standard form looks good overall. I would suggest a minor revision to make the conclusion more closely aligned with the premises:
1) Facebook profiles create an ideal version of self to show society.
2) An ideal version of self creates a higher self-esteem.
3) Higher self-esteem is accompanied by a lower level of motivation.
4) Lower motivation levels impede productivity in completing basic tasks.
∴ Facebook may contribute to lower productivity due to its impact on self-esteem and motivation.
This revision clarifies that Facebook's potential influence on productivity is contingent upon the impact it has on self-esteem and motivation.