What should paragraphs ideally contain?

Paragraphs in a well-structured essay or piece of writing ideally contain arguments because they serve as the foundation for effectively presenting and developing an idea or thesis. Arguments provide the rationale behind a claim, allowing the writer to support assertions with reasoning, evidence, and analysis. In philosophical writing, in particular, constructing logical arguments is critical for engaging with various viewpoints and for advancing the discussion on a particular topic.

Well-crafted paragraphs often include a clear topic sentence that presents the main argument and subsequent sentences that provide support, elaboration, or evidence for that argument. This structure not only helps to maintain focus but also guides readers through the writer's thought process, making the argument more compelling and easier to follow.

While descriptions, definitions, and examples can play important roles in writing by providing context, clarification, or support for arguments, the central focus of a well-organized paragraph particularly in philosophical writing is to articulate and defend a specific position or claim through argumentation. This approach promotes critical thinking and encourages a deeper understanding of the topic being discussed.