Ad vs. Cartoon

Blog – Compare the ad on p. 24 to the cartoon on p. 1. How do their genres influence their arguments?

The ad on page 24 conveys a different meaning than the cartoon on page 1 because of its genre. The ad presents the factual side of the argument – that genetically engineered foods should be required to have labeling on them marking them as such. It is an example of explicit argument – it clearly presents its side of the argument. The political cartoon, on the other hand, is an example of implicit argument. It subtly pokes fun at the people (like the ones who made the ad) who are so caught up in the debate over genetically engineered food that they forget there are people in the world who don’t have any food. Cartoons fall under the genre of opinions while ads fall under the genre of information (albeit often incorrect or exaggerated information).

Implicit vs. Explicit Arguments

Implicit arguments and explicit arguments differ through the way the arguments are presented. Explicit arguments are the most formal way of arguing, In an explicit argument key points are plainly presented towards reaching a truth. An implicit argument is much more subtle, occurring with the aid of pictures or poems. In an implicit argument, the points or truth are implied. An example of an implicit argument could be a photo of a war veteran being hugged by another war veteran. In the picture one of the veterans has lost his arm. But the picture portrays heroism. It glorifies patriotism and sacrifice. The arguer may then present a poem exposing the horror of war – the inhumane occurrences that are bigger than heroism and whatever other sentimental feelings the picture conveyed. This is an example of an implicit argument in which the main points are not stated but implied.