This argumentative essay should serve as the foundation for your research paper. The
argumentative essay must have at least 3 sources and not exceed 500 words, not counting the
title page and “References” (APA) or header and “Works Cited” (MLA).
The essay should be built around your thesis for your research paper (Data Security and data privacy). It must include at least 6 of
the following argumentative strategies for supporting your argument or thesis:
1. An analogy
2. Cause/effect
3. Comparison /contrast
4. Definition
5. Examples
6. Humor
7. Narration
8. Problem/solution
9. Description
Specify in parentheses which argumentative strategy you are using when you deploy it.
For this assignment only, place your thesis statement in bold font. A good way to set up your
thesis is to state some version of the following:
“Although the consensus is [x], I claim that…;”
While some may think [x,] “I argue, however, that…;”
Because the reality is [x], I contend, therefore, that….”
In this way, you are adopting an argumentative stance toward your topic that requires defending.
Do not present a position that is widely acknowledged as factual, obvious, or objectively evident.
There may be pros and cons or potential counterarguments. If your stance turns out to be quite
straightforward or plain, then frame it in such a way that your research presents a new insight or
some new, remarkable information on the subject.
Presenting counterarguments and then refuting them is a powerful argumentative strategy. If you
are able to accurately and fairly present an opposing point of view and then show how your own
argument is preferable, you will be much more convincing in persuading your audience to agree
with you. I strongly encourage you to deploy this strategy. See page 437 of your textbook:
Remember to consider what other perspectives exist on your topic—and what
COUNTERARGUMENTS someone might have to your position. You may not agree
with them, but they might lead you to QUALIFY your thesis—or even change your
position. Whatever you think about other viewpoints, be sure to ACKNOWLEDGE them
fairly and respectfully—and to accommodate or refute them as possible. And carefully
investigate your reactions to opposing positions to be sure you aren’t falling prey to
CONFIRMATION BIAS or ATTRIBUTION BIAS. They will help you to sharpen your
own thinking and your writing can only improve as a result (Lunsford, 437).
Finally, pay close attention to properly formatting your “References” (APA)