Hello,

I'm currently writing my first academic paper. My subject is Proposition 8. In one chapter, I intend to compare the arguments put forward by proponents and opponents, and I wonder how I should present them. Should I divide each side's arguments in two distinct paragraphs? Or is it better to present each argument separately and present each side's views on that argument?

Here is a trial for the 2nd option:

1) Proponents think marriage should remain a heterosexual-only institution. Opponents think everyone should be treated equally.

2) Proponents argued that the CA Supreme Court hadn't respected the will of the people. Opponents thought that amending constitutions should be avoided.

3) Proponents said domestic partnerships already guaranteed couples the same rights as marriage would do. Opponents said that only marriage could provide the greatest security to couples.

4) Proponents were concerned about marriage's potential impact on children's education. Opponents argued that Prop. 8 had nothing to do with education.

Not sure at all, maybe the 1st option would be better? Please, tell me what you think about it, I'm really open to all suggestions.

Thanks a lot!

If you choose your first option above (first paragraph, I'm guessing), you'll have a comparison/contrast paper, not an argumentative essay.

Here is one of the best places online to learn what you need to know about writing argumentative essays:
http://www.powa.org/argumentative-essays/

Go into ,Form: Tradition and Innovation, and what you'll see what the classic order of an argument is. Below this classic order are three alternative orders. Choose one that will fit your need.

The point is that you want to make YOUR STANCE the strongest position, and you want to refute only the main ideas of the opposition. You shouldn't even try to cover them all.

If I were in your shoes, I'd deal only with your options 1 and 3 above. The others aren't major enough to warrant the time you'd spend on them.

I should restate that last part: If I were in your shoes, I deal only with your numbered items 1 and 3 ....

Thank you very much ;) Everything is much clearer now. However, I think I'll choose the "comparison/contrast" option since the assignment I was given is more of a research paper in which I have to include some sort of debate. Plus, I have to remain formal.

Thanks again and until next time :)

When presenting the arguments of the proponents and opponents of Proposition 8 in your academic paper, there are a few different ways you can structure your analysis. Both options you have presented have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on the flow and organization of your paper.

Option 1: Dividing each side's arguments into distinct paragraphs
One approach is to dedicate separate paragraphs to each side's arguments. In this case, you would list all the arguments put forward by the proponents in one paragraph and all the arguments put forward by the opponents in another paragraph. This allows for a clear distinction between the two sides and makes it easier for readers to compare and contrast their viewpoints. However, it may require more careful organization to ensure a coherent and logical flow of ideas.

Option 2: Presenting each argument separately and presenting each side's views
The second option you mentioned involves presenting each argument separately and then discussing each side's views on that specific argument. This approach allows for a more detailed analysis of each argument and allows you to delve deeper into the reasoning behind each side's position. It can help highlight the nuances and complexities of the debate. However, this format may require more extensive explanation and analysis for each argument, which could result in a longer overall discussion.

Ultimately, the choice between these options depends on your personal preference and the overall structure of your paper. Consider the objectives of your chapter and how you want to present the arguments. You could also consider using a combination of both options, especially if you have a large number of arguments to analyze. For example, you could summarize each side's arguments separately in distinct paragraphs and then provide a more detailed discussion of each argument and each side's views.

Remember, the key is to ensure clarity and coherence in presenting the arguments, making it easy for readers to understand and follow the discussion.