How to Have a Successful Argument

     How to Have a Successful Argument 

When you think of times that you had an argument with someone how did it end? Was it ending in screaming matches or exchanges of insults? These are very common things that end up happening because of the personal feelings that get involved in arguments. In Arguing in Communities Written by Author and associate professor Gary Layne Hatch he writes about how we can change the way we approach our arguments. 

When differences arise in communities a proper argument is a key factor to help achieve an understanding. It is very common that there are differences within a community because no one is the same. In a community everyone will  have similarities but they are not identical. There are several approaches to an argument presented by Gary Layne Hatch in Arguing in Communities. The first way mentioned to address the differences are by using force. This would be to use the force of law and punish or silence people in a community that disagree. “This force may be exerted by powerful members of the community, by vote of the majority, through the power of law, through military or physical strength, or through subtle pressure from peers to conform or risk ridicule and alienation.” ( Hatch,196) This approach may be useful at certain times but if it's taken to an extreme level it can cause even more problems to occur. The second approach is learning to live with it. I personally think this can be a very effective way in our current society. This allows for everyone in the community to “agree to disagree”. “When people agree to disagree, arguing can clarify where the disagreement lies and solidify the agreement to live with the difference.” (Hatch, 197) This allows for both parts to be heard and understood. Another way to approach an argument is to use what we are most familiar with: communication and persuasion. This method can be the most effective way to negotiate. However most people in an argument may not be honest and try to be manipulative.

A successful argument can be had when a process is being used. This process includes identifying the issue, analyzing the arguments being made about the issue, and finding where you can contribute in the conversation. This process should not be followed step by step but allowed to flow through as a process. If you have already formed a “side” or an opinion it is still important that you are open and listen to the other side's argument. It's also important to bring up some questions like what's the issue, what are the claims being made , and why are people supporting those claims? This will allow for you to be open to the other side's argument.  

Productive and clear arguments can be resolved when both sides are being heard. Differences in communities will always exist because everyone has different opinions. The only way to make a successful argument is to analyze the claims being made and understand why they are being made. When analyzing the argument you may come to the conclusion to change your opinion or stance.