In the article “What a Surprising Study of Peanut Allergies Reveals…

In the article “What a Surprising Study of Peanut Allergies Reveals About Public Discourse” (2022), the author Robert Glaze, aims to trigger in the reader the thinking of how restrictions and avoidances may impact people’s experiences, beliefs and biases. To persuade the audience, he applies different strategies. For instance, he uses analogy, rhetorical appeal – Pathos, referring to statistical data, and some modes of persuasion using logical fallacies, such as lived experiences or popular ideas. Although these different rhetorical appeals help the author build and structure his point of view, he could strengthen his arguments using a broader data source, adding more evidence and facts.
First, Glazer (2022) uses an analogy to structure his arguments and attract attention to the article. The analogy is a tool for explicitly representing the topic, helping guide the readers in the author’s suggestions and point of view. For example, he referred to the LEAP study, which revealed that avoiding foods with peanuts, rather than trying adequate exposure, is five times more likely to trigger an allergy in a child. It helps to persuade the reader that restrictions are not always the best approach. In addition, the analogy affects the reader’s connection to the topic since many are parents and may have been notified of this restriction in their son’s school. Therefore, it helps draw their attention and interest to the article. However, using the analogy is a concern when the approach changes the focus of the discussion from the article’s primary purpose.
Second, Glazer (2022) uses some modes of persuasion using logical fallacies, such as lived experiences or popular ideas, that focus on emotions over logic. It can be noticed when he disserts about the application of Exposure Therapy to children with severe allergies. Another example is his statement about organizations and institutions being instructed to eliminate situations that may trigger emotional discomfort. He uses personal experience and knowledge in both cases, lacking evidence to support it. Moreover, he correlates the avoidance of uncomfortable situations to physical and emotional problems. Even though it shows some association, no theory or data exists to prove that evidence.
There are some cases where avoidance or restriction of access can lead to an “allergy” to it. The exposure may help people to experience different perspectives, leading to a more respectful, resilient, and tolerant society. To persuade the reader of that statement, Glazer (2022) uses a variety of strategies. He begins his writing with a rhetorical device of analogy, which solidly supports his thinking, and helps draw the reader’s attention. The author includes some statistical data, using logical appeals and modes of persuasion using fallacies, such as lived experiences or popular ideas. Although his strategy is effective for understanding the topic, the author lacks examples and pieces of evidence to support some of his arguments.
Explain with a paragraph and give comments on peer’s draft. Focus on these two points:
– What strengths did you find in your peer’s essay?
– What opportunities for improvement do you see?