Determining whether a statement can be argued

An early step in an argument intended to convince or decide is to make a statement about a topic and then check to see that the statement can, in fact, be argued. An arguable statement has three characteristics:

  1. It attempts to convince readers of something, change their minds about something, or urge them to do something—or it explores a topic in order to make a wise decision.
  2. It addresses a problem for which no easily acceptable solution exists or asks a question to which no absolute answer exists.
  3. It presents a position that readers might realistically have varying perspectives on.
ARGUABLE STATEMENT Advertising that features very thin models contributes to the poor self-image that afflicts many young women.

The statement here seeks to convince, addresses a problem—poor self-image among young women—that has no clear-cut solution, and takes a position many could disagree with.

UNARGUABLE STATEMENT Advertisers earn millions of dollars every year.

This statement does not present a position; it states a fact that can easily be verified and thus offers a poor basis for argument.