Chapter 13 Review

 

Jonathan knows he hasn’t really prepared for his speech very well. Instead of going to the library, he went to a party over the weekend. Instead of finding supporting evidence, he went to the movies with his best friend. Two days before he’s going to give his speech, Jonathan decides that he won’t even bother with the library. Instead, he opts to just write out a quick speech and fill it with lots of “flowery” language. He creates a number of interesting similes and metaphors. He makes sure that his speech has a fun rhythm to it and has some great instances of alliteration. Upon finishing his preparation, Jonathan thinks to himself, Well, the speech may have no content, but no one will really notice.

1. Is it ever ethical to be devoid of content and opt instead for colorful language?

2. Should language ever be a substitute for strong arguments?

3. If you were a friend of Jonathan’s, how would you explain to him that his behavior was unethical?