The term feminism has been debated for years; mainly in regards to who gets to set the parameters for what is considered progressive female thought in America. Some say a majority of the feminist who are protesting are over reacting and do not take into consideration that bias against women cannot occur in female empowered culture. Additionally, there are critics that also say that women should represent strict gender codes that could possibly prevent harassment, shaming and bullying in America. This essay is positioned to explore the various naysayers that dismiss or criticize modern feminist thought. You will take the readings and write a well thought out ROGERIAN MODEL essay where you introduce an opposing argument regarding the treatment of women in various arenas, where women and women roles and rights are challenged.
Some topics that you can consider are:
-Sexual Harassment in the Workplace (Think of Anita Hill case/Harvey Weinstein)
-Stop Telling me to Smile Campaign, CatCalling and Street Harassment
-Slut Shaming/Online Social Bullying
-Racial, Social and Gender Discrimination in K-12.
The ROGERIAN MIODEL of argument believes that in order to have a successful argument, one must establish a common ground. This mode addresses the commonality between two varying issues by responding to each concern providing information to reconcile the differences or acknowledging how the problem may not reconcile and why. Here is a summary of the basic strategy for a Rogerian argument:
1. In your essay, first, introduce the problem.
2. Acknowledge the other side before you present your side of the issue. This may take several paragraphs.
3. Next, you should carefully present your side of the issue in a way that does not dismiss the other side. This may also take several paragraphs.
4. You should then work to bring the two sides together. Help your audience see the benefits of the middle ground. Make your proposal for the middle ground here, and be sure to use an even, respectful tone. This should be a key focus of your essay and may take several paragraphs.
5. Finally, in your conclusion, remind your audience of the balanced perspective you have presented and make it clear how both sides benefit when they meet in the middle.
