Explicit vs. Implicit Arguments

When engaged in an argument, you are usually trying to persuade others to see your point of view. Underneath this argument, though, is a quest for truth. This truth manifests itself as arguers enlightening each other in the topic at hand. Arguments inform the arguers of other facts, other bits of information that contradict their beliefs. Points brought up during an argument broaden the views of the arguers, allowing them to see truth in the opinions of others.
An argument can be presented as either an explicit argument or an implicit argument. An explicit argument frankly puts forth a claim, sometimes a controversial one, and then proceeds to support this claim with reason and factual information. An implicit argument displays itself as a poem, a picture, a story, even a cartoon, that silently persuades the reader or viewer towards a certain opinion.
Explicit arguments, whether presented on paper or in person, contain a thesis and evidence. The thesis explains a viewpoint, and the evidence justifies this viewpoint. Throughout an explicit argument, the arguer must clarify certain statements and address counterpoints that would be given from a person with an opposite viewpoint. Explicit arguments often take the form of scholarly papers, papers that present a well-researched thesis to lead the reader to agree with the writer on a certain topic.
Implicit arguments do not appear as overt arguments. Instead, these kinds of arguments only hint at what the arguer is trying to convey. Implicit arguments do not contain a thesis or evidence. “Dulce et Decorum Est,” by Wilfred Owen, is an implicit argument. This poem goes against the statement that it is “sweet and fitting” (6) to die defending one’s country. Owen presents his argument not by putting forth reason but by describing of the disturbing image of a soldier drowning in the gas of a mustard bomb. This image appeals to the reader’s emotions, leading one to the opinion that war is “devoid of heroism or a higher purpose.” (6) In implicit arguments, the use of images and detail guide the reader or viewer to assume one opinion or another. Other times, implicit arguments are simply used to get the opposer to see another’s viewpoint.
The purpose of an argument is not to win but to find truth. When one argues a point, they are informing an opposer of their view, the view that conflicts with the opposer’s view. This broadens the opposer’s viewpoint, and, in turn, the opposer will further enlighten the arguer by providing counterpoints. Not all arguments are heated debates; some arguments are merely discussions between people of opposing views. Explicit arguments directly present a claim and then defend it. Implicit arguments do not come with a thesis or facts. Implicit arguments are images and words that subtly hint at an opinion and bring a reader or viewer to see, and sometimes believe, that opinion.