Sophia's Blog

The Toulmin Method is an organized way of argumentation that can significantly improve our capacity for persuasion, claims Julia Green in her book "Communicating Online" (p. 283).     Claim, grounds, warrant, backing, qualifier, and rebuttal are its six main parts. Each element has a distinct function in the creation of a logical and convincing argument.   1. Claim:  The claim is the speaker's or writer's major assertion or idea. The argument is intended to establish this viewpoint as its main focus.   2. Grounds:  The grounds, sometimes referred to as evidence or data, offer justification for the claim. They may contain data, figures, comments from specialists, examples, and anecdotes. 3. Warrant:  The warrant serves as a link between the grounds and the claim. The connection between the evidence and the claim, and the justification for why the evidence supports the claim, is made logically. 4. Backing:  The warrant is being reinforced ...

  The social media management tool Buffer hosts " The Science of Social Media ", which focuses on offering knowledge and advice on social media marketing, digital communication tactics, and trends. The hosts conduct expert interviews and disseminate knowledge backed by research.   I chose this podcast, as it not only discusses important online communication hacts for businesses but also speaks about the importance of providing an anti-racist and inclusive environment online. According to Patrick Freyne and his 2015 article „Why do we argue online“ in the Irish Times, many more people are willing to go online to promote their beliefs, speak out about injustice, and fight for their rights. During the 2020 civil rights movement, the value of broadcasting ones stand, especially in business, has sky-rocketed. Many organizations promised online to promote a space for underprivileged people by adjusting their operations and increasing awareness of the reality ...

Social media has become a potent instrument for organizing and capturing large-scale protests and movements in the digital age. During events like the 2020 civil rights movement and protests, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Reddit have transformed how individuals organize, share information, and influence public opinion. However, with this newfound authority comes the duty to critically assess how social media affects historical records, how narratives are manipulated, and whether it might have positive or negative effects.     1. Social Media and the 2020 Civil Rights Movement:  The tragic death of George Floyd served as the turning point for the 2020 civil rights movement, which saw a new use of social media as a platform for gathering and amplifying voices. Social media gave activists the ability to mobilize rallies, spread awareness of systematic racial injustices, and reach a global audience through hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter, #SayTheirNames, a...

I chose to examine Banyan Botanicals media presence and social media platforms. Banyan Botanicals is a wellness based company focusing on educating people about all topics Ayurveda and Yoga, while selling Ayurvedic supplements, oils, teas, and more. I always liked their products, they’re high quality and the website is not only educational but transparent.  The choice of colors and graphics communicate the companies values-natural, plant-based, and at peace. Once you click on the website, there’s a prompt to explore best-seller products. When scrolling down, you’ll find more information about product categories they carry, reviews, free educational resources, what makes them stand out: sustainably sources, organic, and fair traded; and blog posts. At the bottom of the page you’ll find their contact info, email signup options and a wide selection of links about more information concerning their operations.  Since I worked at a website design company, I know this way of organiz...