Ethical or Unethical Argument - Essay Example

Ethical or Unethical ArgumentThere are several ways of proving one’s own point when in the midst of an argument or reasoning regarding an issue. While some arguments must be backed up by supportive evidence and fact, others are a mere expression of one’s own opinion and views. However, one of the most important elements of an argument is basing your reasoning upon ethics. Unethical arguments or arguments which do not follow the course of reasoning should be avoided and should not be voiced adamantly (Vaughn, pp. 246-250).The question arises of how to distinguish between a good and ethical argument and a bad or unethical argument.

Ethical arguments are based on evidence or fact which can be proven and cannot be challenged by multiple people. The evidence or fact is such that has been scientifically proven or is a fact based upon recorded events that cannot be questioned. However, arguments based on mere opinion are those that are based upon a person’s personal perception of things and require individual analysis. Inflicting your opinion upon other people or trying to mould their opinion according to yours without providing facts or reasons is considered unethical (Vaughn, pp. 236-237).Some arguments contain sound reasoning or logic and consider others viewpoint within them before drawing to a conclusion.

These arguments are based upon logic, fact, and contain proof of reasoning instead of relying upon a single person’s judgment. Unethical arguments do not consider the viewpoint or perception of others and lack sound reasoning. They are based upon mere opinion or a single person’s judgment. They may be based upon inferences or predictions and may also carry the elements of prejudice and biasness. Most of the time, unethical ways of argument cause harm to a certain cause without due reason and are concerned with the most trivial concepts (Stevenson, pg. 15).Hitler’s argument against the Jews and the argument for breeding a “better race” was an argument based primarily upon his own opinion and prejudices.

Other arguments which stereotype certain religions, races, ethnicities, and people in general are also considered unethical arguments as they are based upon mere opinion rather than objective fact which are non-refutable (Stevenson, pg. 22).In order to argue in an ethical manner, a person must consider the reason for which they are arguing. The purpose of the argument or the outcome that wants to be achieved must be such that must not cause undue harm to anyone and must not hurt anyone’s beliefs without due reason.

Arguments that are supported with objective fact rather than an analysis of facts are more likely to be upheld as ethical. While expressing a viewpoint, due regard must be given to the opinion of others as not doing so would be regarded as unethical. Arguments must be analyzed according to what the majority of people think and not upon the basis of opinion of one individual who is not able to provide sound reasoning for his/her opinion. While everyone is entitled to their own opinion, it is not ethical to inflict your opinion upon others.

If trying to convince others regarding a matter, one should present the other person with sound reasoning, logic, and proof of matter that would support his/her argument. If a person lacks such evidence, then he/she should allow a bit of leeway for the other person’s opinion as well (Stevenson, pg. 24).Works CitedStevenson, C. “The Emotive Meaning of Ethical Terms.” Mind. Vol. 46, No. 1. 1937: pp. 14-31. Print. Vaughn, Lewis. Doing Ethics: Moral Reasoning and Contemporary Issues. W.W. Norton & Company. 2009. Print.