Lecture on Rhetorical Appeals: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

Introduction to Rhetorical Appeals

• Every commercial, conversation, and argument involves rhetorical appeals.
• Three main rhetorical appeals: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.
• Rhetoric is the art of persuasion, and it uses these appeals in various situations.

Ethos: Credibility and Trust

• Ethos is based on the credibility and trustworthiness of the speaker or writer.
• Persuasion is more likely from trusted individuals with experience, expertise, or sincerity.
• Example: A persuasive salesman appears credible by showing expertise, prioritizing customer needs, and demonstrating vast knowledge.
• Shared values between speaker/writer and audience are crucial to building trust.

Logos: Rationality and Logic

• Logos appeals to the logic and reason of the audience.
• In academic settings, a clear thesis supported by details, statistics, and counter-arguments is a strong appeal to logos.
• Logos involves solid arguments and understanding of opposing viewpoints.

Pathos: Emotion and Identity

• Pathos targets the emotions and values of the audience.
• Emotional appeals connect with values or identities, like patriotism or parental pride.
• Example: An ad for a backpack for fathers might appeal to a father's sense of heroism and identity.
• Sole reliance on pathos is often weak, but it strengthens arguments when combined with ethos and logos.

Assignment

• Writing task: Create an argumentative paragraph using ethos, pathos, and logos.
• Different scenarios to choose from, e.g., advocating for free school lunches, a TikTok account for a teacher, or a pet cheetah.
• Underline each rhetorical appeal used in the paragraph, labeling them with 'E,' 'P,' and 'L' for ethos, pathos, and logos respectively.

Conclusion

• Understanding and effectively using ethos, pathos, and logos enhances persuasive communication.
• The assignment encourages creative and accurate use of these rhetorical appeals.