LIST #4 OPINIONS

LIST #4  OPINIONS

This is a list of opinions, things you believe, or things you feel strongly about. These are likely topics that you could use in persuasive or argumentative writing or speaking. A quick way to get at these is to complete the following sentences in as many ways as you can:

I believe….

I feel strongly that…

You should…

Everyone should…

There should be a law that…

Another way to get at them is to list a bunch of things that make you made or annoy you. Then ask why? Clinging to your annoyances, like barnacles, are your opinions.

Here is an example of a LIST #4:

NOTE: When I am creating examples, I often make things up. Just because it is on the list does not necessarily mean that this is what I believe. Though usually that’s the case.

1. Not all opinions are equal.

2. Responsible communication = supporting claims with evidence.

3. Socrates was on to something when he claimed to be wise. He said he was wise because he knew he didn’t know.

4. You shouldn’t be on television talking about books you haven’t read.

5. School should be optional.

6. Omit needless words.

7. Poetry is important.

8. The word hate is grossly overused.

9. Use use instead of utilizing utilize.

10. “You can observe a lot by watching.” – Yogi Berra

11. Being a father is different than being a sperm donor.

12. Money is better spent on experiences than things.

13. As a culture, we should reclaim the idea of the Sabbath.

14. It shouldn’t be necessary to have to check your email every day.

15. Curiousity and creativity should be encouraged and taught in schools.

16. Doodling and visual language should be a part of school curriculums.

17. “You don’t need people’s opinions on a fact.” – John Oliver

18. “Just because you don’t know about it, doesn’t mean it’s a secret.” – Jon Stewart

19. “You can’t laugh and be afraid at the same time.” – Stephen Colbert

20. If you don’t know the context of when something is said, and what happened before and after, than you don’t really understand what is being said. (Note: quick quotes in here #17-19, etc. are problematic because they are quick soundbites removed from a larger conversation. They are included here in this form because this is an informal list not meant for a public commentary, AND they succinctly summarize my views and opinions on facts, secrets, and laughter.

21. Asking questions makes a place in the brain for the answer. (via Clayton Christianson?)

22. Educated Decisions

23. Changing your mind given new information or time to think is a sign of strength, not weakness.

24. Just because you can look it up, doesn’t mean there isn’t some information you should memorize.

25. Writing, like life, like most things, is a process.