Chapter 18 - Taking a Position Exercise

Chapter 18 - Taking a Position Exercise

Reading for Better Writing - “An Apology for the Life of Ms. Barbie D. Doll”
Pages 265 - 266 - Exercise:

1. The word apology can mean defense, as well as a statement of regret for wrongdoing. Is the use of the word fitting in the title? Why or why not?

I don’t really think that the word apology in the title of this article is fitting. I think that the use of that word in the title gives a tone of sarcasm to the article. I can see how the author uses the word apology in the title as more of a defense to the Barbie doll, but I am not sure if I’d use that word. I think I would have a title more along the lines of, “The Misjudged Life of Ms. Barbie D. Doll.”

2. This essay is a counterargument that replies heavily on logic and personal experience for support. How does the writer treat the original source? How do concessions and rebuttals function in this argument?

I think the reader treats the original source with a great deal of insult. Almost as if this author feels the original source has no clue what they were talking about. I think that the idea to a good argumentative or persuasive paper is not to bash the opposing side, but to have an open mind and gently make rebuttals to it. I feel this author was offended deeply by the original source.