The Shape of Reason: Argumentative Writing in College

by John T. Gage

This brief, rhetoric of argument teaches critical reading, informal reasoning, and writing as reasoned inquiry, and now features a new collection of student arguments. The Shape of Reason emphasizes the enthymeme as the central basis for the invention and structuring of arguments. This approach blends classical insights into rhetorical reasoning with contemporary understandings of the composing process as generative and organic, situated within discourse communities. The book helps students understand argument as inquiry, stressing the responsibility that writers have―to their audience and to their own ideas―in structuring arguments that earn their conclusions and in considering opposing arguments.

Genres: Writing, Nonfiction

208 pages, Paperback

First published January 28, 1987

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Looking forward to using this in second-semester composition class in spring semester. Would be a good book for anyone who wants to think about writing and reading ethical arguments. Not too long, either--most textbooks are way too long, trying to cover everything and please everyone. Like the little bear's porridge, this book is just right.

[Tessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book used in my college WR 121 class. It focuses on forming an argument that is well-articulated and connects with your audience. That's helpful in writing, but it's also essential to being a human being. I still use what I learned from it every single day.

[Robert Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gage does a really great job articulating the kind of messages I'd like my students to receive but couldn't always put into words. I'll probably quote him on the next version of my syllabus.

[Jessica · Rating 1 out of 5]

I did not find the information is this book useful, and I think the only reason we were required to read any of it is because it is written by a University of Oregon professor.