A sophisticated argument takes a clear position but acknowledges complexity. Compare “Breaking the law is wrong” with “Breaking the law can be justified when a law is unjust and peaceful protest has failed, but only if the protester accepts the consequences.”
Qualified claims use words such as when, unless, only if and but. They show that you have thought about exceptions.
Support your case with reasoning, examples and evidence, and address the strongest counter-argument directly rather than a weak one.
Worked example
Which thesis is more sophisticated? A: “Laws are rules.” B: “Breaking the law can be justified when a law is unjust, but only if the protester accepts the consequences.”
- A states a fact.
- B takes a position with conditions.
Answer:B
Key words
- qualified claim
- a claim with conditions or limits
- sophisticated
- thoughtful and complex
- counter-argument
- an opposing view
Practise this
New questions every time.
Common Core-referenced: W.9-10.1a