In Literature, students are writing persuasive essays. We discussed how a strong persuasive paper addresses the opposition – that is, it accounts for opposing arguments and subsequently defeats them. In reading “Bhakti Bhava” by Devamrta Swami, one student, Arjuna Penate, made note of how the author tends to play the devil’s advocate – bringing up many points of Krsna consciousness that people may doubt and then showing how our philosophy allays those doubts. “Mother Vrnda Priya,” Arjuna said, “Devamrta Swami addresses the opposition a lot!” Making connections like this demonstrates learning retention and integrates Krsna consciousness and academics.
Addressing the Opposition
