Types of Propositions and controversy considerations based on types:
Propositions of FACT: These are arguments that wrestle with whether something “is” or “isn’t” the case. They have to deal with questions of history, causal relationships or future predictions. Here are some examples:
Capital Punishment deters crime.
The Oregon economy is improving.
Global warming is increasing.
Propositions of VALUE: These are arguments that ask us to make an individual choice on whether we should or shouldn’t do something. Questions of morality and aesthetics are the source of value arguments. Here are some examples:
Become a vegetarian.
Assert your right to civil disobedience.
Capital Punishment is morally wrong.
Stephen King’s work deserves great praise.
Propositions of POLICY: These are arguments that concern published rules or laws that we are supposed to follow. Here are some examples:
Tuition at COCC should be raised.
Oregonians should not be allowed to pump their own gas.
Capital Punishment should continue to be an option in Oregon.
Notice how policy arguments, such as the capital punishment question, often need consideration FACT and VALUE argumentation to establish their support. Also notice that when an argument takes the form of POLICY issue, it is usually very controversial. Thus, to establish a controversial topic, as is required for the Speech of Controversy, think about presenting it as a policy. For instance, the VALUE argument of “become a vegetarian” is much less controversial than a POLICY argument on the same topic, such as “Put a luxury tax on the consumption of animal flesh.”