Structure your essay according to Rogerian strategy. First, identify the differences. What is polarizing about this argument or issue? What are the key sides to the issue? How is the information presented to the audience? Introduce the issue and show that you fully understand and acknowledge each side of the argument. Then, restate the issue or argument in neutral terms. How can this argument be presented in a more neutral, more objective way? Discuss which contexts and under what conditions each position may be valid. Do not distinguish one side or element of the argument as completely wrong. Next, uncover the common values for all sides of the issue. What assumptions, views, and values, might the different elements share with those on the other side of the argument? Share the benefits of a common position, indicating the contexts and under what conditions it is valid. Finally, propose a solution. What changes would you make to find a common ground, or possible solution, to the impasse? What compromise will each side have to make? Indicate how each side would benefit from adopting an element of compromise. Illustrate how each side complements the other and how compromise supplies what each position lacks.
