Identify Schaffer’s central claim in the introductory paragraphs of “The Value of a Sherpa Life”? Analyze how Schaffer develops and refines his claim in the body of the essay.
Use these guidelines in your writing or discussion.
Restate Schaffer’s central claim, or the main point he is making.
Identify the factual evidence, such as numbers and historical data, that Schaffer uses to support his claim.
What emotional appeals does Schaffer use? Are they effective? Why or why not?
Schaffer is a climber and senior editor at Outside magazine and has written extensively about the Sherpa’s working conditions at Mt. Everest. What effect does Shaffer’s expertise have on his claim?
What, in Schaffer’s opinion, is the solution to the problem he presents? What are the barriers to achieving this solution?
Schaffer's central claim in the introductory paragraphs of "The Value of a Sherpa Life" is that the Sherpas who work on Mount Everest are undervalued and face dangerous working conditions. He argues that their labor and expertise are essential for climbers to reach the summit, yet they are underpaid and their lives are put at risk.
To support his claim, Schaffer provides factual evidence such as the low pay the Sherpas receive compared to Western climbers, the high mortality rate among Sherpas on Everest, and the lack of social and financial support for the families of Sherpas who die on the mountain. He also includes historical data about the history and role of Sherpas as guides and porters on Everest, emphasizing their contribution to the climbing industry.
Schaffer utilizes emotional appeals throughout the essay to highlight the human element of the Sherpas' plight. He tells personal stories of Sherpas who have died on the mountain and the impact it has on their families. He also emphasizes the bravery and skill of Sherpas, making readers empathize with their struggle for fair treatment and recognition.
Schaffer's expertise as a climber and senior editor at Outside magazine lends credibility to his claim. He has firsthand knowledge and experience with the Sherpas' working conditions, allowing readers to trust his perspective and analysis. This expertise gives weight to his argument and makes his claim more convincing.
In Schaffer's opinion, the solution to the problem he presents is for climbing companies and Western climbers to pay Sherpas fair wages and provide better working conditions and insurance coverage. He suggests that the Sherpa community should also be more involved in decision-making regarding climbing on Everest. The barriers to achieving this solution include the profit-driven nature of the climbing industry, the unequal power dynamics between Western climbers and Sherpas, and the lack of collective action among Sherpas due to economic vulnerabilities and cultural differences.