Arguing for a Change

There are similarities and differences in arguing for a position vs. arguing for a change. In both of these types of essays, the author is attempting to convince his or her readers of a certain view on a topic. The main differences are in what the writer calls for the reader to do in response, and in the types of ideas suggested in the argument. In an essay that argues for a position, the author simply wants the reader to be persuaded to his or her point of view and to come to believe the same ideas about a topic as the author. However, in an essay that argues for change, the author is calling for the reader to become so dedicated a certain viewpoint that they are committed to reforming that subject. For example, Jefferson wants to stir his readers up so that they are ready to take a stand and take action to reform the situation. Also, Jefferson suggests specific steps that should be taken to change the situation and right the wrongs that have been committed against the people. Whereas in an argument for a position, the author's purpose in writing is just to convince the audience to believe a certain way, not necessarily to take action. An example of this is the article by Meredith Clark, who is trying to convince her readers that young adults without medical insurance is a big problem.