Question

argumentative
barbara jordan’s keynote address was given half a century ago, but presents ideas that resonate generations later. jordan presents several claims and various types of reasoning and evidence; however, she has one central argument. explain her argument and how she develops that argument over the course of the speech. be sure to note the type(s) of reasoning jordan uses and make your own claim about the effectiveness of this reasoning to support her overall argument.
response

Explanation:

To answer this, we analyze Barbara Jordan’s keynote:

Step 1: Identify the Central Argument

Jordan’s central argument often revolves around democracy, civic responsibility, or the importance of ethical governance (e.g., in her 1976 keynote, she emphasized the need for leaders to uphold democratic values and the public’s role in holding them accountable).

Step 2: Analyze Reasoning/Evidence Types

• Ethical Reasoning: She appeals to shared values (e.g., justice, equality) to unite audiences across generations.
• Historical/Anecdotal Evidence: References to U.S. history (e.g., the Constitution, founding principles) ground her claims in tradition.
• Logical Structure: She structures her argument with clear claims, supported by examples (e.g., legislative work, constitutional principles) to build credibility.

Step 3: Evaluate Effectiveness

Her reasoning is effective because:

• Timeless Themes: Democracy and civic duty remain relevant, so her ideas resonate decades later.
• Emotional + Logical Appeal: Ethical appeals (values) and logical evidence (historical/precedent) create a persuasive, memorable argument.

Barbara Jordan’s central argument (e.g., defending democracy, civic responsibility) is developed using ethical reasoning (appealing to shared values), historical evidence (U.S. constitutional principles), and logical structure. Her reasoning is effective because timeless themes (democracy, duty) and dual appeal (emotional + logical) ensure her ideas resonate across generations.

Answer:

Barbara Jordan’s central argument (e.g., upholding democratic values/civic responsibility) is developed via ethical reasoning (shared values), historical evidence (constitutional principles), and logical structure. Her reasoning is effective: timeless themes and dual (emotional/logical) appeal make her ideas resonate decades later.