What Is A Position Paper
What Is A Position Paper
What Is A Position Paper
Lesson 1: Objectives
• Define what is a position paper?
1 2
Introduction -this part illustrates the central
this part of the paper argument which can be presented
identifies an issue that is through a brief description of the
being discussed by the argument. Detalls, point of view,
author emphasizing his evidences are used to support the
position about the issue. claim. It can be divided into these,
Here, the topic is introduced; sections namely, background
background and history of information, evidence supporting
the issue shall also be the author's position, and a
discussed. discussion which addresses and
refutes arguments that present
both sides of the issue.
Conclusion
3
this part restates the main
points, then summarizes the -
arguments made in the
paper and then provides a
call of action.
A manifesto advances a set of ideas, opinions, or views, but it can also lay
out a plan of action. While it can address any topic, it most often concerns art.
literature, or politics.
Although manifestos can claim to speak for the majority, they are often
authored by social activists and usually linked to new ideas
A position paper can be effectively used in present society
in situations such as:
1. Policy Advocacy: Presenting a stance on social, political, or
environmental issues to influence policy decisions.
2. Business Decision-Making: Within organizations, to articulate a
company's position on specific industry trends, regulations, or
strategic directions.
3. Educational Settings: In academia, students often write position
papers to demonstrate understanding of a subject and argue a
particular viewpoint.
4. Public Debates: Offering a structured argument on controversial
topics in public forums to contribute to informed discussions.
5. Professional Associations: Communicating the views of a professional
group on matters relevant to their field.
Manifestos analyzed arguments used by
writer/s
Communist Manifesto by Karl Marx and Friedrich Unabomber Manifesto, written by Theodore
Engels. Kaczynski? Also known as "Industrial Society and
Published in 1848, it's a classic that laid out the Its Future,"
principles of communism. this manifesto was published in 1995. Kaczynski,
The main arguments include the critique of also known as the Unabomber, argued against
capitalism, the call for proletarian revolution, modern industrial society and technology.
and the vision of a classless society. He believed that technological advancements
Marx and Engels believed that capitalism led to the erosion of human freedom and
inherently led to class struggles and that the dignity.
working class (proletariat) would eventually Kaczynski called for a return to a simpler, pre-
overthrow the capitalist system. industrial way of life, and he went to extreme
They envisioned a society where the means of lengths, including acts of violence, to bring
production were collectively owned, leading to attention to his ideas. It's a stark contrast to the
a more equitable and just social order. Communist Manifesto, reflecting a deep
skepticism about the direction of technological
progress.
Key points
A position paper – an essay that expresses a
position on an issue
Three Elements
• Introduction
• Body
• Conclusion
Manifesto – a document publicly declaring the
position or program of its issuer.
Lesson 2: Objectives
• How to write a position paper