The Art of Arguing
In an opinion based article titled Ben Carson is Inspiring, but not for President, author Nicholas Kristof explores the presidential candidate and argues as to why the former neurosurgeon does not deserve to sit in the esteemed Oval Office. Kristof begins the article by crediting Ben Carson's successes. Born to an impoverished teen mother in the Detroit Area, Carson's expectations for life were low since the beginning. Through his mother's effort to educate Carson despite being barely educated herself, he went to become an extraordinary student, earning him a spot in the prestigious Ivy League university of Yale. Carson went on to become a neurosurgeon and author, earning himself many titles and trophies. Nicholas Kristof argues against Ben Carson as president. He attacks many of the flaws in Carson's candidacy, and believes that Carson's campaign is mostly based on his "biography" and "first-rate demeanor" , and not on the foundation on which the policies are based on. He addresses that the new policy proposals are absurd and vague, lacking facts and credibility. Kristof states that " he seems to see his rise as an indication that America needs not so much social programs as firmer character". Then he proceeds to counter argue that claim by using factual evidence of a 2012 food stamps study to claim that social programs are needed, indeed beneficial to the country, and very popular, stating that they were probably even used by Carson himself. Ultimately, Kristof's goal is to argue his view that Ben Carson, while accomplished and intelligent, should be acknowledged for his successes, but serves as a better role model than decision maker for this country.