A Look at Argument, Persuasion, and Rhetoric · The Appeals (logos, pathos, ethos), Fallacies (Look...
Transcript of A Look at Argument, Persuasion, and Rhetoric · The Appeals (logos, pathos, ethos), Fallacies (Look...
A Look at Argument, Persuasion, and Rhetoric
Argumentation-PersuasionEveryone has experience arguing- “Do it.”
“Why?”“Because I said so.”
“You can’t possibly expect me to believe what you are saying.”“Look, I know what I’m talking about, and that’s that.”
But-In writing or oration, it is using clear thinking and logic
to convince audience of the soundness of a particular opinion, especially on controversial topics.
Differences between… Argument- purpose to document objectively
to prove a point Persuasion- purpose to shake up readers
and motivate them to act
The two are usually combined because most people respond rationally and emotionally.
It’s not just words An argument can be any text (whether
written, spoken, or visual) that expresses a point of view.
Purpose of Argument
Inform Convince Explore Make
decisions
Act (action)Meditate
and prayThinkDo
Elements of Argument:
Claims Data/Evidence Elaboration/Reasoning Counter Claims The Appeals (logos, pathos, ethos), Fallacies (Look for this later) Rhetorical Strategies
What is a claim? An arguable statement In effect, someone who offers an
argument for a position is making a claim, providing reasons to support that claim, and implying that the premises make it reasonable to accept the conclusion.
Other terms: argument, thesis
There are three types of claim Claims of fact assert that something is
true or not true. Claims of value assert that something is
good or bad, more or less desirable. Claims of policy assert that one course
of action is superior to another.
Data/Evidence Information gathered to support the
claim. Evidence can include data, experience,
observations, reading, etc.
Elaboration/Reasoning This is the so what, so why, so how Explanation of why or how the data
supports the claim, the underlying assumption that connects data/evidence to the claim.
This falls under the elaboration category in the argumentative essay rubrics!
What is a Counter Claim The part of an argument in which a
speaker or writer counters opposing points of view.
It can also be referred as a counter argument or refutation.
The rebuttal is the evidence used to negate or disagree with the counter claim.
Constructing the Argument All of these elements go into making an
argument. Authors choose specific rhetorical strategies for maximum effectiveness, based on the factors already discussed
The strategies chosen are based off of the three appeals (logos, pathos, ethos)
Logos, Ethos and Pathos
Aristotelian Appeals
Aristotle’s Three Ways to Persuade
LogosEthosPathos
What is logos, ethos, and pathos?Logos = Logic
Ethos = Ethics, Image
Pathos = Emotions (Passion)
Logos
Logos is an argument based on facts, evidence and reason.
Using logos means appealing to the readers’ sense of what is logical.
Logos Example
Unemployment Rates in California for the last 20 years
EthosEthos is an argument based on character.
Using ethos means the writer or speaker appeals to the audience’s sense of ethical behavior. The writer or speaker presents him or herself to the audience as credible, trustworthy, honest and ethical.
“I am an ethical expert, so believe what I say.”
Ethos Example:
Quote: “Changes in professional football are producing a faster, more pass-oriented game.”
Repertoire: NFL Quarterback and Champion
Why is Peyton Manning credible?
Pathos
Pathos = argument based on feelings
Using pathos means appealing to readers’ emotions and feelings.
Pathos Example: Advertisement for
wrinkle cream How does this
advertisement appeal to emotion? Why?
What is rhetoric?Rhetoric is the art of
persuasion and study of effective speaking and writing
The goal of persuasion is to change others’ point of view or to move others to take action.
Rhetoric is the study of effective speaking and writing. Rhetoric studies
the effectiveness of language comprehensively, including its emotional impact, as much as its propositional content.
Rhetoric is how language and thought work together
thinking
speaking
writing
Rhetorically Speaking…
You will argue using rhetorical
strategies
You will evaluate rhetorical strategies
Rhetorical Analysis Analysis requires dissecting the piece
and categorizing/labeling its various parts.
Analysis requires full understanding of the argument’s general rhetorical structure.
The rhetorical analysis separates the parts of the argument to see how the whole works.
Writing a Rhetorical Analysis Is not a discussion of the content, nor
does it take a side on the issue. Requires the reader to explain how the
appeals are used and what effect they have. A clear knowledge of the intended
audience is important. Identifying specific strategies used for each
appeal is critical.
Using Rhetoric In every situation where you are attempting to
persuade someone of something, you are using rhetoric.
Your strategies adapt depending on the audience, situation, and other factors.
Most of us do this more or less unconsciously. Actively thinking about rhetoric is a bigger challenge.
Rhetorical strategies- Literary devices: symbolism, irony,
metaphor, imagery, alliteration, sarcasm, etc
Language devices: syntax, repetition, connotation, denotation, diction (but you better add an adjective to that), etc.
Fallacies: scare tactics, bandwagon See http://rhetoric.byu.edu/ for many
more…