Write an argumentative essay about article "Yes, Let`s Pay for Organs"

Part 1

Do the reading.

1. Answer one of the Comprehension questions at the end of that reading.

2. Answer one of the Purpose and Audience questions at the end of that reading.

3. Answer one of the Style and Structure questions at the end of that reading.

Part 2

Write an argumentative essay.

Should the government encourage organ donation by paying the living relatives of a donor? Why or why not?

Comprehension

1. According to Krauthammer, what is "odd" about organ-donation policy in the United States (2)?

2. What is the "real objection" to the planned Pennsylvania program allowing the relatives of donors to receive financial compensation for organs (6)?

3. Krauthammer believes that the relatives of deceased donors should be able to receive financial compensation. However, he objects to allowing living donors to sell the organs on the market. How does he explain his distinction?

4. Krauthammer generally approves of the Pennsylvania program, but he qualifies his support. What problem does he have with the program?

5. In paragraph 13, Krauthammer refers to the Talmud and its notion of a "'fence' around the law." How does he use this notion to advance his argument?

Purpose and Audience

1. What is Krauthammer's overall purpose in this essay? Restate his thesis in your own words.

2. Where in the essay does Krauthammer discuss opposing arguments? Does he refute them persuasively? How could his refutation be strengthened?

3. Krauthammer accuses his opponents of using a logical fallacy in their arguments. What is the fallacy? Is he correct?

4. Would you characterize Krauthammer's approach as Rogerian arguments? Why or why not?

5. The writer cites the Talmud to support his argument. What does this reference suggest about how he sees his readers and how he characterizes their ethical standards?

Style and Structure

1. Krauthammer repeatedly asks rhetorical questions. Identify them. Does he answer these questions in his essay?

2. Where does Krauthammer use analogies? How do these analogies help to support his argument?

3. In paragraph 8, Krauthammer mentions "that little thing called human dignity." How wouldyou characterize his tone in this sentence?

4. How does Krauthammer use cause and effect to support his argument? Is the causal connection he identifies convincing? Why or why not?