Journal

Journal Pitts, Leonard Jr. “ Spare the Rod, Spoil the Parenting.” Writing a ical Argument. 415-417.
As a person who may become a parent, it is helpful to understand the various approaches that are taken toward parenting. I have heard many arguments presented against spanking, that it is bad, but have also seen that many parents resort to this method of discipline particularly with their younger children. Before I judge what is good and bad parenting, it helps to know some of the arguments on either side of this issue. The author utilized a great deal of narration to keep the article interesting, but cites scientific studies to prove his point. The author also examined to some extent the cause and effect of reasonable, rationale spanking as compared to actual abuse. I did not particularly like the essay in terms of proving its point with scientific evidence, but I do agree with its basic argument that rational punishment, even and particularly in the form of the occasional spanking, is beneficial for a child’s well-being as its replaces the parent in the role of authority.
Rockwood, David. “ Letter to the Editor.” Thinking Rhetorically about Good Writing. 7.
I have been interested in the creation of alternative power for a long time and wind generators are one of my major areas of interest. I have my own concerns regarding them, such as what will happen to wind patterns like the jetstream if enough of these towers are erected. I base this opinion on the effects that have taken place at Niagara Falls as a result of the construction of large buildings that prevent the wind from doing its job. The author uses logos combined with authority to argue his three main points against wind power, indicating that these are not exclusive of any other concern but merely some of the more pressing issues that must be addressed. I liked the article because I thought it was very straightforward in its presentation of facts and concerns while not getting too detailed for the amount of space available.
Merton, Thomas. “ A Festival of Rain.” Thinking Rhetorically about Good Writing. 8.
This essay was of interest to my life because I am at least as affected by the capitalistic world I live in as the author of this story. The difference is that he is able to get away to a silent retreat when he wants to and I am usually pretty much trapped within the noise and bustle of the city. I don’t have a cabin to go to but I can certainly appreciate the value he places on his. The author uses pathos and metaphor to create a mood of quiet celebration of something that we usually take for granted. By appealing to the emotions of his readers and associating the falling rain and the sounds it makes to a festival, the author is able to foster a sense of appreciation for the free rain that still falls from the sky. I really liked this essay because of its poetic language, its ability to appreciate the natural world and its ability to bring that natural world into my head through reading about it.