Let a Thousand Licensed Poppies Bloom

In "Let a Thousand Licensed Poppies Bloom," Maia Szalavitz establishes a convincing argument. She makes a casual claim saying that legalizing opium production will provide more benefits than totally eradicating the crop. She adequately describes the problem, proposes a solution, and justifies her claim.

In paragraph 4, Szalavitz provides convincing facts demonstrating the futility of eliminating drugs as a result of ending opium production. By following that statement with another citation about the suffering going on in the world due to lack of availability of pain relievers, she strengthens her appeal to pathos. Not only does the reader feel sympathy toward those who are in pain, but also resentment for the clear availability of the drugs that could put an end to that pain.

Another thing Szalavitz does to enhance her argument is to nod to an opposing idea. By acknowledging the fact that there would be potential problems in the Senlis plan, she shows her ethos appeal. It shows that she considered all options and proves that she isn't a blind believer in her cause.