Question

What parts of King's argument do you find most compelling? Discuss your reaction to the letter with a partner. Cite specific evidence from the text to support your ideas.

a) I find King's argument about nonviolent protest compelling. It's a peaceful way to create change.

b) King's argument about the importance of civil rights is not compelling. I disagree with it.

c) I'm not sure what parts of King's argument are compelling. I need to discuss it with a partner.

d) King's letter does not contain any compelling arguments.

Answer 1

King's advocacy for nonviolent protest is one of the most compelling parts of his argument.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the parts of King's argument that I find most compelling are his advocacy for nonviolent protest. King believed that peaceful means were essential for creating meaningful and lasting change. He drew inspiration from figures like Mohandas Gandhi and Henry David Thoreau, who used nonviolence to achieve their goals. For example, King states in his 'Letter from a Birmingham Jail' that 'nonviolent direct action seeks to create such a crisis and establish such creative tension that a community that has consistently refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issue.' This demonstrates his belief that nonviolent protest is a powerful tool for bringing awareness and change to social issues.