In-Class Lab: Analyzing an Argument 2

Morgan Carlson

1. What is the claim?
The claim is that having a cow is good for anyone with enough space, time, and money. The author says that it's beneficial for a family with patience and capacity for a cow.
2. What support does the writer offer for the claim?
Reasons such as production of milk and meat are apparently good for a family, however they are not necessary. But for a family that would appreciate having those around the house, as well as a manure for your lawn, it is beneficial to add a cow to a home. The author adds facts regarding health and beneficial ingredients in food produced by the cow's milk. With factoids from the food & drug administration and other well-educated sources, the author is able to support his claim that having a cow is good.
3. How evenhandedly does the writer present the issue?
The author doesn't really bring in counterarguments to the paper, however with important information that has to do with the manure, enzymes and pesticides in the cow's milk, the author is able to cover enough ground without the extra counterarguments involved. His arguments are appropriately qualified, with no cliche's, no insulting or crude remarks, and a well-thought out opinion regarding the ownership of a cow. 
4. What authorities or sources of outside information does the writer use?
The author uses sources from credible authors and professionals on the subject such as Carl Rosen and Chris Kresser. Rosen has credible information from the University of Minnesota to back him up on the information, and Kresser wrote an article discussing the dangers of raw milk, and the appropriate way of consuming it.
5. How does the writer address you as the reader?
The writer is able to discuss the benefits of having a cow in your life as well as the dietary needs and restrictions involving what is in the cow's milk and meat. Although I think the overall paper is well-written and uses important information and credible sources, I myself am a vegetarian agree with the idea of using a cow for its milk and meat. Many people do, and many believe its necessary in a diet, so this paper will prove beneficial to their liking, but I don't and I have opinions quite opposite to these, however I was respectful and supportive of this author and their viewpoints. Just because I don't exactly agree with the writer doesn't mean it wasn't informative.