In her article "Update on Autism and Childhood Vaccines," Carol J. Weber discusses the effects of Thimerosal, a vaccine preservative, and the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine (MMR) on children. Weber analyzes the argument that these substances are linked to the development of autism. With an impressive array of supporting statistics and examples, Weber is able to successfully refute claims from critics that Thimerosal and MMR are primary causes of autism in children.
Weber aims her writing at anyone who believes that vaccines are a direct cause of autism in children. Many critics of vaccines have little to no evidence to support their fears. They are mothers who read something in the news and took it a little too seriously, or parents whose children have autism and are looking for someone or something to blame. Weber knows this is her general audience, so she uses facts with references and quotes medical studies to back up her statements. This use of scholarly sources, as well as the non-inflammatory way in which she structures her argument, will lead many to agree with her and accept her argument as completely valid. The essay is also very easy to follow and understand. Weber clearly outlines a timeline and presents her evidence in chronological order, which contributes to the credibility of her reasoning.
Weber's article is an excellent example of effective inductive reasoning. She uses specific facts and examples from case studies to underline her argument. Each quoted or paraphrased study is directly related to the refuting of the claim that vaccines directly cause autism. She reminds the reader of this fact in her conclusion, stating that "Available evidence does not support either MMR or thimerosal, a vaccine preservative, as a primary cause of autism" (Weber 291). There is a sufficient amount of ethical appeal in the article as well. Weber establishes her credibility and reliability through the use and quotation of scholarly sources and scientific studies.
