Adopt either the perspective of retribution or rehabilitation as a justification for punishment and argue for or against the utility of parole within the state corrections system
- APA FORMAT TOPIC: Adopt either the perspective of retribution or rehabilitation as a justification for punishment and argue for or against the utility of parole within the state corrections system. Note that the federal system does not allow for parole.Instruction
The written assignment for the course is a 3-5 page polemical essay on a topic provided by the instructor. A polemic is a style of argument that seeks to persuade an audience to adopt a particular view or course of action on a controversial subject. The polemic differs from the traditional essay that attempts to describe or explain a phenomenon or situation; it states a preference by building a strong case in favor of one stance whilst tearing down the opposing view. A well-crafted polemic does not utilize dogma (ideological slogans) in this effort but relies on meticulous research exploring both contentions. The polemic has four distinct parts. The first is the introductory paragraph which lays the theme of the essay and provides some general background. The theme is critical as it is the driving purpose of the essay. The theme, where the topic is provided (such as in academia or public debate), is best constructed as a restatement of the assignment. Unless approaching the polemic as satire (e.g. Aristophanes), the position taken by the author should be clearly stated at the outset. Again, the theme is vital as it provides focus and framework for the essay, as well as setting the general boundaries for argument. Apart from the theme, the remainder of the introductory paragraph serves to describe the controversy, thereby imbuing the polemic with relevance and context. The second part of the polemic is the argument, which sets forth in one or more paragraphs the facts and inferences supporting the position taken. The argument should be well-researched and proper attribution made to sources. Proper sourcing is especially important where claims are being made to authority. The third part of the polemic is the counter-argument wherein the opposing view is stated, along with facts and inferences in support, and refuted. Care should be taken to defeat the strongest argument mustered by the other side; avoid merely setting fire to a strawman. Finally, there is the conclusion where the theme is once more restated as the inevitable result of proper reasoning given the facts produced by the foregoing discourse. Remember, the polemic is an argument that seeks to promote a particular view or action. Polemics do not result in a series of equally valid options, other plausible possibilities, or vague speculation. Polemics are highly opinionated writing; albeit educated opinion supported by the logical analysis of available facts.
