You will be utilizing the Rogerian style of argumentation. Remember, this technique makes specific demands of you as a writer. This style is fundamentally different from what you have become accustomed to writing in your courses. Whatever subject you choose, make sure that you present a clear position on some contentious issue. Remember, if the issue isn’t at least somewhat controversial it is unlikely you will be able to develop a solid, or more importantly an interesting argument.

QUESTION

Directions: In this writing assignment you will be crafting an essay of Rogerian argument on a topic of your choice. Your topic must present an issue that is a subject of disagreement, that is, it is sufficiently complex for there to be a diversity of viewpoints.

(You may use the same topic you chose for essay 3. In fact, I highly recommend this!)

3 – 4 pages.

You will be utilizing the Rogerian style of argumentation. Remember, this technique makes specific demands of you as a writer. This style is fundamentally different from what you have become accustomed to writing in your courses. Whatever subject you choose, make sure that you present a clear position on some contentious issue. Remember, if the issue isn’t at least somewhat controversial it is unlikely you will be able to develop a solid, or more importantly an interesting argument.

You need two professional sources that must support the argument you are making and successful Rogerian arguments always address the opposition viewpoint as well. You can use the source you examined in essay 3 if you wish. Remember, simply dismissing or shouting down the opposition is an ineffective and lazy approach to success in argumentation, though it is certainly still the most popular.

ANSWER

The Role of Social Media in Political Discourse: A Rogerian Perspective

Introduction

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, revolutionizing the way we communicate, share information, and engage with others. However, its impact on political discourse has sparked a contentious debate. On one hand, proponents argue that social media platforms provide a valuable space for diverse voices to be heard and for marginalized communities to organize and mobilize for social change. On the other hand, critics assert that social media exacerbates polarization, fosters echo chambers, and undermines democratic discourse. This essay adopts a Rogerian approach to explore the role of social media in political discourse, aiming to find common ground and foster understanding between the opposing viewpoints.

Body

Understanding the Potential of Social Media

Amplifying Voice

Supporters argue that social media allows marginalized groups and individuals to share their experiences and perspectives, giving them a platform they may not have in traditional media (Pearce et al., 2020).

Source 1 (Professional Source): Research studies showing how social media enables underrepresented communities to raise awareness about social injustices and mobilize support for their causes.

Democratizing Information

Social media provides easy access to a vast range of information, enabling citizens to stay informed about political developments and engage in political debates.

Source 2 (Professional Source): Examples of how social media has played a crucial role in disseminating information during political uprisings and revolutions, empowering citizens and challenging oppressive regimes.

Challenges and Concerns Surrounding Social Media

Echo Chambers and Polarization:

Critics argue that social media algorithms promote content that aligns with users’ existing beliefs, leading to echo chambers and reinforcing polarization.

Source 3 (Professional Source): Studies highlighting how social media algorithms contribute to the formation of filter bubbles, restricting exposure to diverse perspectives and limiting fruitful dialogue.

Spread of Misinformation:

The rapid dissemination of unverified information on social media can lead to the spread of fake news, misinformation, and conspiracy theories, which can undermine public trust and democratic processes (Rocha et al., 2021).

Source 4 (Professional Source): Examination of the role of social media platforms in the propagation of misinformation and the challenges of combating it effectively.

The Middle Ground: Constructive Engagement on Social Media

Promoting Civil Discourse

Both sides can agree on the importance of fostering respectful and constructive conversations on social media platforms to bridge ideological divides.

Source 5 (Professional Source): Strategies and best practices for promoting civil discourse on social media platforms, such as active listening, empathy, and critical thinking.

Algorithmic Transparency and Regulation

      Acknowledging the concerns, both sides can support efforts to increase transparency in social media algorithms and promote responsible content moderation to combat echo chambers and misinformation (“Transparency Is Essential for Effective Social Media Regulation | Brookings,” 2023).

      Source 6 (Professional Source): Examination of regulatory approaches and proposals aimed at addressing the challenges posed by social media platforms while preserving free speech and fostering healthy online discourse.

Conclusion

While social media’s impact on political discourse remains a subject of disagreement, adopting a Rogerian approach allows us to find common ground and recognize the value and concerns associated with social media. By amplifying diverse voices and democratizing information, social media can empower marginalized communities and facilitate civic engagement. However, challenges such as echo chambers and the spread of misinformation need to be addressed through constructive engagement and regulatory measures. Balancing the benefits and challenges of social media is crucial to nurture a vibrant and inclusive political discourse in the digital age.

References

Pearce, K. E., Gonzales, A. L., & Welles, B. F. (2020). Introduction: Marginality and Social Media. Social Media and Society, 6(3), 205630512093041. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305120930413 

Rocha, Y. M., De Moura, G. A., Desidério, G. R., De Oliveira, C. a. F., Lourenço, F., & De Figueiredo Nicolete, L. D. (2021). The impact of fake news on social media and its influence on health during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review. Journal of Public Health. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-021-01658-z 

Transparency is essential for effective social media regulation | Brookings. (2023, June 24). Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/blog/techtank/2022/11/01/transparency-is-essential-for-effective-social-media-regulation/