The “Pro” and “Con” Essay Format

Pro Essay (5 pages)

Pro Introduction: The author (fill in) argues for the following controversial conclusion: (give

conclusion). He supports this conclusion with the following premises: (a) (give first premise)

and (b) (give second premise). This essay will examine each premise in the light of objectors

and then defend the author from these objections.

The possible objection to the first premise (give the objection(s)).

Reply to the first objection (give pointed reply).

The possible objection to the second premise (give the objection(s)).

Reply to the second objection (give pointed reply).

Theoretical observation (this is a broad theoretical groundwork upon which the whole argument

rests)

Significance (this is a concrete example from the world in which these issues play out today).

Con Essay (5 pages)

Con Introduction: The author (fill in) argues for the following controversial conclusion (give

conclusion). He bases his argument on two objectionable premises: (a) (give first premise) and

(b) (give second premise). It will be the contention of this essay that these premises are mistaken

thus rendering the conclusion unproven.

Objection to the first premise (give objection).

Counter-refutation by the author (imagine how the author would respond to your objection)

Counter-refutation against the author (show how the author’s response is inadequate)

Objection to the second premise (give objection).

Counter-refutation by the author (imagine how the author would respond to your objection)

Counter-refutation against the author (show how the author’s response is inadequate)

Theoretical observation (this is a broad theoretical groundwork upon which the whole argument

rests)

Significance (this is a concrete example from the world in which these issues play out today).

The book is:Plato Gorgias

Translated by: Donald J. Zeyl