Thesis

The most important part of any argument is the thesis (also called a claim, a position, or a central argument). A thesis will usually do one of three things: make a judgment about something, offer a solution or recommendation, or explain something. Let's take a look at some examples:

• Adding a "multiracial" category to the U.S. Census would be harmful to the African-American community.
• Electronic invasion of privacy endangers American families.
• Distance learning is good for students and institutions, but it may not be good for faculty.

These statements make judgments about the value of certain actions. But with these topics, as with many others, a thesis could also make recommendations:

• The United States Census should add a "multiracial" category to the next census survey.
• Internet users should never send personal information, such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, or even home addresses, through the internet.
• In order to be effective, distance learning programs should provide opportunities for interaction among students and between students and faculty, technical support, and easy, flexible access.

Or a thesis could present an argument that explains why something has happened or what it means, like this:

• The call for the addition of a "multiracial" category to the U.S. Census shows that Americans are getting tired of strict racial divisions and becoming more aware of how complex racial identity can be.
• Privacy problems on the internet are inevitable because of the technical format, human nature, and the realities of contemporary life.
• Distance learning works well for today's college students, who may be working full time, raising families, returning to college after years in the work force, or unable to afford to go to school in the traditional way.

E-mail your comments and suggestions to the YSU Grant Team (cardcat@bgnet.bgsu.edu).