Santiago, Kimberly D.

BSED 1-1

A Reflection on the Rationale and Significance

of Writing a Position Paper
As we get older, our thinking principle tends to be more complicated; thoughts and
emotions are needed to be expressed. But what’s ours is not as the same as what others have.
And because of differences, it raises variety of perceptions, stands, reasoning and arguments
about a certain issue in order to satisfy someone’s curiosity. But how is it really important to be
careful in defending an idea? Does it need to undergo a process? Will it help us to develop some
aspects as a person?

Writing position papers are like a debate that presents one side of an arguable issue and
presents evidences to support a claim. According to Bullock (2009), “Position paper should not
be completely subjective nor a matter of taste of opinion”. Therefore, presenting unreasonable
opinion can make a claim unjustifiable and not appealing to your audience. It is important to
understand how defending an idea/claim can change someone’s perception. Because through
position paper, you announce to the world your stand that would serve as foundation for
proposing solutions to a particular issue or problem.

According to Xavier University Library (2014), the purpose of a position paper is to

generate support on an issue. Of course, you need to establish your credibility and win the trust
of your readers by presenting facts, statistics, case studies and other evidences that undergo a
systematic process to show them that you really know what you’re talking about. And if that so,
you will be able to persuade your audience to act or do something.

It is also important to frame the discussion through organizing or outlining your paper. It
must contain the (1) introduction, (2) counter argument, (3) your argument and (4) conclusion. A
position paper must be systematized and prepared in order to make things clear. Consider also
the importance of the parameter and focus of your viewpoint. Being organized can also make
you a trustworthy claimer.

It has also affects some of your aspects as a person like for example your honesty that
would be tested by avoiding plagiarism. As what the law said, ignorance is no excuse; plagiarism
is a kind of stealing. Also your passion on the issue that should be demonstrated through your
argument and not in emotional terms.

Thus, writing a position paper can enhance our ability in weighing different information
in our hands. It helps to practice our reasoning skill and be provided with facts and evidences in
order to win the minds and hearts of other people. Writing a position paper is not only about
papers it is about you.
Santiago, Kimberly D.
BSED 1-1