The earth is round, not flat. Almost everyone knows that this is a true statement and would never deny or oppose its credibility. If a person did not conform to this view, then they would be considered incredulous simpletons by anyone who is learned. Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK Jr.) was a genius that had a gift for presenting undisputed arguments that any unprejudiced and reasonable person could not rebut. His response to the criticism of eight Alabama clergymen was very effective because of his ability to present a friendly argument in a professional manner, which unquestionably undermined the criticism in an undeniable fashion. MLK Jr. was very adamant about displaying his love for the clergymen along with his for their views. All throughout his letter he maintains a loving and kind view of the clergymen, while completely destroying their arguments. From the beginning of his letter, he states that he does not write in response to criticism, but because of the clergymens apparent goodwill and kind intentions, he makes an exception. This helps to make MLK Jr.s argument very persuasive right from the start. Another example of the friendliness in his letter is the style of writing that he uses. Although he very convincingly poisons the criticisms of the clergymen, he uses kind words that help to lessen the sting of his venomous attacks. An example is the use of the words I hope many times in his letter. Also, when he ends his letter, he states that he hopes to find all of the men in good faith and wishes to meet each of them as a loving friend, not as an integrationist or civil rights leader. MLK Jr. ends his letter signing it Yours for the cause of Peace and Brotherhood, yet another example of the use of friendly words to strengthen his argument (King pp. 628-641). Along with the kindness of MLK Jr.s letter, the professionalism of it is outstanding. The professional way in which the letter is written makes it a ver...
