The prediction argument is very similar to the causal argument: the purpose is still causal, the same causal mechanisms are at work, and the structure of the argument is similar. The difference is temporal. Whereas the causal argument explored the causal connections among actually existing phenomena, the prediction argument attempts to make claims about future effects.
The basic underlying rhetorical structure of the prediction argument is x will cause y, although the actual expression of your individual theses will probably be more sophisticated and precise. For instance, indicate the degree of causality by carefully choosing your causal verb (will contribute to, will lead to, will play a role in, will affect, etc.).
In addition, your topic and your pursuit of
that topic will also shape the final structure of your thesis. See the
table below for some sample prediction argument structures.
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X will cause Y. (This thesis treats a single cause and effect relationship.) X will cause Y, Z, A, B, C. (This thesis treats a single cause and predicts several effects.) X will cause Y, Z, and, most significantly, A. (This thesis argues that something will have several effects, and further argues for the particular importance of one of the effects.) X will cause Y, which will lead to Z. (This is a causal chain, in which one thing will cause some other thing, which in turn leads to some other effect.) V, W, and X will cause Y. (This prediction argues that several causes contribute to a single effect.) |
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