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  • Essay / Would you buy a car that looks like this - 1096

    Andrew Simms, policy director and climate change program manager for the New Economics Foundation in England, presents his argument on the impact of SUVs on our roads, and the air we breathe. “Would you buy a car that looks like this?” “. The title alone gives a good overview of the subject of the article (vehicles). “They clutter the streets and litter the pages of weekend color supplements. Sports utility vehicles or SUVs have become badges of middle-class aspiration” (Simms 542). Simms' opening statement not only gives his opinion on how SUVs are the new trend, but he also paints a picture of what we see on our roads every day. Simms also compares the tobacco industry's gap between image and reality to that of SUVs; stating that the causes and consequences of climate change are similar to smoking and cancer. Simms' comparison of SUVs to cigarettes shows how dangerous he thinks SUVs are. Simms thinks the SUVs we love are dangerous and polluting. Simms describes how damaging he believes SUVs are with a quote, fast becoming "one of the most common causes of death and disability in the world, ahead of tuberculosis, HIV and war" (quoted in Simms 542). This is a very strong statement; so strong that it makes the reader question the source. It also promotes an emotional appeal for the reader. Death, war and HIV are very serious problems; comparing them to SUVs creates a need for attention. Next, Simms explains how the global warming conference in two weeks makes new thinking about SUVs urgent. This statement shows Simms' concerns about global warming and the effects of SUVs. This also shows his need to inform. Then Simms presents his solution: "Shouldn't SUVs be now... middle of paper... countries Simms assumes readers will feel it's time for America to also recognize the SUV problem; and also act. Finally, Simms concludes his argument with his labeling solution. Simms suggests setting a threshold; which could be configured to trigger labeling when efficiency drops below a certain threshold. “As with cigarettes, warnings could cover 30 to 50 percent of the surface of the vehicle” (Simms 544). Simms also states that this method will not stop SUVs from driving, but will force them to accept the consequences of their actions and contribute to education about global warming and road safety. In other words, it would help the industry come out of denial. Simms' statement shows that he has a realistic view of his solution. His conclusion also reinforced his idea, encouraged thinking, and gave readers a visual idea..