Editorial
This opinion editorial begins by stating, "There is a world of difference between a right to speak and an obligation to publish," which is its main thesis. The use of a thesis in the first sentence is a bold yet effective way to make your point known right off the bat. The no-nonsense approach shows that the author is serious about their opinion and therefore the reader reacts in a positive way. The author goes on to describe the author of the controversial book as being "self-evidently disturbed", and having "shameful views". Strong statements such as these give the reader a horrible, psychopathic view of the author. The use of powerful diction supports the thesis of the editorial and is therefore persuasive to the reader.
Along with diction, the claims that the editorialist makes to support his thesis are very strong. He provides examples of controversial, historic literature and then compares them to the non-literary value of the pedophilia book. These examples makes the well-read reader recognize a stark contrast between them, and agree further with the overall thesis.
Another great use of technique that is employed here is the counterargument. The editorial agrees that the government has to give 1st Amendment rights to everyone, but it is not necessarily Amazon's job to do so. They are a business, and in acting in their own interests, can decide to sell or not sell anything they choose. They have done so before with terrorist-type literature, and are entitled to do the same here.
Finally, the article ends with the statement, "The ever-popular "How to Kill" is still listed on the site." Just as the editorial began with a bold statement of meaning, it ends with one also. The reader is affected emotionally by the thought of a book teaching how to kill, and is therefore sold on the thesis.
If this editorial was compared to an AP thesis, it would be very successful. Its thesis is clearly written, its claims support the thesis, and there are specific examples and even a counterargument mixed in.
Again, a good essay that addresses all of the necessary criteria, except for length. Fail.
ReplyDeleteMy only complaint would be your lack of an introduction to the situation faced by the reviewer, it took awhile to get the backstory figured out from your essay. Very good thoughts though. Pass.
ReplyDeleteFail. But just because of the word count. Add an introduction like reuben said and itll be just fine. But other than that it was great, especially your use of a variety of strong, technique examinations
ReplyDelete