Using the examples of two Stephen Jay Gould’s essays and your own experience, write an essay about why it is important to value diversity both in society and in the natural world. Your essay must summarize two different Stephen Jay Gould’s essays and tell a story from your own life. You should also include your general comments and opinions on the subject.
There are two key concepts from rhetoric and argumentation for this essay. The first is to develop your argument in a dialogue with counterarguments, what we’ve called “denying the contrary” in class. Try, in other words, to begin your arguments and interpretations by refuting the opposing point of view. The second key concept is using extreme or odd examples to illustrate an argument. Gould is a good model for this. You should try to think of an unusual and unique example of diversity in your own life that you can use for your essay.
The in-class reflective writing we will do should provide a basis for your essay’s narrative and structure. Further research will corroborate and refine your thinking about the subject. We will discuss and perform research in class.