Final answer:
In textual analysis, authors use generalizations to engage with a broad topic, then restate and respond to refine their arguments, often incorporating counterclaims to improve fairness and appeal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question relates to the way in which Graff offers generalizations in his essay and how he restates and responds to these generalizations or claims. In textual analysis, authors like Garrison and Tran synthesize content from various sources, offering a broad perspective before honing in on specifics.
The purpose of such strategies in academic writing is to engage with the broader conversation on a topic, making assertions that will often be scrutinized or further elaborated upon, as evidenced by the peer reviewer comments on Garcia's draft. The inclusion of Graeber's anthropological observations supports the idea of offering generalizations that are grounded in empirical research which then leads to restating and responding to claims through the lenses of one's analytical framework and contextual knowledge.
In academic essays, restating and responding may involve enhancing the original thesis, revisiting the sources for deeper insight, or reorganizing the structure to ensure clarity and flow. It is a key aspect of the writing process that allows writers to refine their arguments and often involves considering counterclaims and demonstrating fairness in addressing opposing views. This allows the author to demonstrate awareness of the rhetorical situation and fosters a logical and emotive appeal to readers.