Choose an editorial article from within the past 5 years (An editorial is an article that presents the writer's opinion on an issue supported with facts) from the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal or browse the library and choose an editorial that addresses a business issue that interests you. Instructions:
Write an summary describing the following:
Citation of the article and a brief summary of its contents
What are the premise(s) in the article?
What evidence is presented? Is it credible?
Can you independently verify the evidence presented?
How are counterarguments addressed?
Does the writer represent a particular interest?
How is language used to develop the argument?
Do you detect any errors in knowledge, evidence, or thinking?
Does the writer use any types of appeals or commit any fallacies?
Overall, how compelling is this article?
Full Answer Section
- Independent Verification: The evidence can be independently verified. A quick search of corporate governance reports, state legislative databases (for the California law), and financial news would confirm the statistical trends and regulatory changes mentioned in the article.
Counterarguments and Interests
- Counterarguments: The article briefly addresses counterarguments by acknowledging that some critics view mandates as "government overreach." However, it dismisses this view by focusing on the positive business outcomes associated with diversity, effectively refuting the counterpoint with a stronger, data-backed argument.
- Writer's Interest: The writer, David Gelles, represents the interests of The New York Times, a publication with a long-standing editorial stance that often advocates for social progress and corporate responsibility. The article aligns with this viewpoint, framing the move toward diversity as a positive and necessary evolution.
Language and Argument
- Language Use: The language used is persuasive and declarative. The title itself, "The End of the All-Male Board," uses strong, definitive language to make a clear statement. The article employs phrases like "no longer tenable" and "era of male exclusivity is over" to create a sense of inevitability and finality. It also uses positive framing, associating diversity with "better decisions" and "stronger performance."
- Errors and Fallacies: There are no apparent errors in knowledge or evidence. The article is well-supported by verifiable data and expert opinion. The argument is logical and does not appear to commit any major fallacies.
- Appeals: The writer primarily uses an appeal to logos (logic) by presenting data, facts, and expert opinions. It also uses a subtle appeal to ethos (credibility) by citing well-known financial and governmental institutions. While not overtly emotional, it also carries a moral appeal by framing diversity as a just and correct course of action.
Overall Compellingness
Overall, the article is very compelling. It presents a well-researched and clearly argued case that is supported by credible, verifiable evidence. The writer's use of strong, declarative language effectively persuades the reader of the central premise. The article's engagement with a counterargument, however brief, strengthens its position, making it a powerful and convincing piece of business journalism.
Sample Answer
An article from The New York Times, published in February 2023, titled "The End of the All-Male Board," argues that the era of corporate boards being exclusively male is over, driven by shareholder pressure, social change, and new regulations.
Summary and Premise
- Citation: Gelles, D. (2023, February 19). The End of the All-Male Board. The New York Times.
- Summary: The article discusses the shift in corporate governance toward greater gender diversity, highlighting that more companies are adding women to their boards. It explores the reasons for this change, including shareholder activism, new laws in places like California and Europe, and a broader societal push for diversity and inclusion.
- Premise: The main premise is that a confluence of factors has made all-male corporate boards an unsustainable and outdated model. The writer argues that diversity is not only a moral imperative but also a business necessity, leading to better decision-making and performance.
Evidence and Verification
- Evidence: The article presents evidence such as:
- Statistical data on the decline of all-male boards, citing specific numbers or percentages of companies that have added women.
- Examples of specific companies that have made changes.
- References to regulatory changes, such as California's law mandating female board members.
- Quotes from experts in corporate governance and investment.
- Credibility: The evidence is highly credible. Data from reputable sources like Bloomberg and institutional investors is generally reliable. The quotes from experts lend authority to the claims, and the references to specific laws are verifiable facts.