Section B: Argument mapping exercise (20%)

1. Refer to the article below (Workplace sexual harassment should be reported, condemned) and construct an argument mapping based on the argument. Your argument mapping should indicate clearly three elements (contention, premise and objection). (15 marks)

2. Evaluate whether the argument is strong or weak, and explain your reasoning using any two of Paul and Elders standards. (5 marks)

Workplace sexual harassment should be reported, condemned

October 15, 2017

By Julia Evelsizer | Pantagraph.org

BLOOMINGTON Sexual harassment can happen in any workplace, whether its a Hollywood studio or an office full of cubicles. Major film producer Harvey Weinstein has been accused of raping or sexually harassing several women, including actresses Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie. He was fired from Weinstein Co. last week.

As the scandal unfolded, more victims came forward with similar allegations: Weinstein used his power as a movie mogul to intimidate the women, but the victims were too frightened to speak up and jeopardize their careers.

Experts said delayed reports are common for victims of sexual assault, so businesses should educate employees on the topic to keep their workplaces safe.

Victims may not come forward because they may feel scared of being fired or receiving retaliation. Or they may not speak up for fear of not being believed, especially if the harasser has power over them, said Cinnamon Porter.

Porter is a prevention educator with Stepping Stones, YWCAs sexual assault program which provides 24-hour assistance for sexual assault and sexual abuse victims in McLean County. Porter said sexual harassment includes any unwanted or unwelcome sexual advances, including requests for sexual favors, or other verbal and physical sexual behavior.

For example, sexual jokes or comments can happen the most in the workplace, she said. Also common is the physical part, which can include brushes or touches that make someone feel uncomfortable. Victims of sexual harassment should review policies and procedures at work surrounding harassment, said Porter. If they feel comfortable enough, they should stand up to the person committing the sexual harassment. Let them know those behaviors are making them uncomfortable,

The victim should report inappropriate behavior to a supervisor and, if needed, file a complaint through the company human resources department, she said. Any employee also can file a complaint through the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which states harassment is a form of discrimination.

Porter said reporting sexual behavior ensures a safe work environment for all employees.

If its happening to you, theres a good possibility this is happening to someone else as well. Reporting it could stop harassment from happening to others, she said.

If an employee experiences a form of sexual harassment, Lowe agreed they should immediately speak with someone in management or HR.

Businesses should then do whatever it takes to remedy the situation, he said. They should investigate the allegation by interviewing victims or harassers, finding witnesses and reviewing emails, texts or other documents that might help prove or disprove the complaint. From there, a decision can be made as to appropriate discipline while avoiding the need to involve outside agencies or legal representatives unless there is a clear need to do so.

Companies should train newly hired employees on workplace harassment policies as well as give refresher courses to management on a periodic basis. Businesses should also "be very public about their position and policies," reminding employees that sexual harassment is not tolerated.