Question3

Identifying Rhetorical Strategies: Logos, Pathos, and Ethos Rhetoric: The art of using language persuasively and effectively

Logos = Logic The use of logic, rationality, and critical reasoning to persuade. Logos appeals to the mind. Logos seeks to persuade the reader intellectually. Some Examples of Logos  Appeal to the mind/intellect  Draw from philosophy and logic  Facts  Statistics  If, then… statements  Definitions of terms  Explanation of ideas  Cause and effect  Details that come from objective reporting  Logical reasons and explanations  Counterargument and rebuttal

Pathos = Emotion The use of emotion and affect to persuade. Pathos appeals to the heart and to one’s emotions. Pathos seeks to persuade the reader emotionally. Some Examples of Pathos  Appeal to the heart/emotion  Draw from spirituality or religious

traditions  Stories or testimonials  Personal anecdotes or stories  Personal connections  Imagery and figurative language that

provokes an emotional response  Visual images or words that inspire you to

empathize or have compassion towards the idea/topic

 Powerful words, phrases, or images that stir up emotion

 Details that come from subjective reporting

Ethos = Ethics and Credibility The ongoing establishment of a writer’s or speaker’s authority, credibility, and believability as he/she speaks or writes. Ethos appeals to ethics and character. Ethos seeks to persuade the reader that the writer/speaker can be trusted and believed due to his/her noble character or ethical ways in which he/she is presenting ideas. Some Examples of Ethos  Appeal to the writer’s/speaker’s

believability, qualifications, character; relevant biographical information

 Use of credible sources (experts, scholars)  Accurate citation of sources: gives credit

where credit is due  Experience and authority: person knows the

issues and has experience in the field  Appropriate language: uses language of the

discipline  Appropriate tone: knows the audience and

context of situation  Humility: is not arrogant  Uses tentative yet authoritative language;

avoids sweeping statements like “Everyone is doing this,” “This is the only way,” “This will always work.” Instead says, “The research suggests that,” “Some experts believe,” “In my experience,” etc.