The Art of Persuasion

What is the Difference between Persuasion and Argument? The words "argument" and "persuasion" are often used interchangeably.

Argument The purpose of argument writing is to prove or disprove your claim (thesis). Using evidence and reasoning the author must demonstrate the truth of the claim (thesis).

Persuasion In persuasive writing, the goal of the writer is to convince the reader to accept the claim (thesis). Persuasion assertively seeks to influence or change the reader’s opinion and to provoke action based on the author's validity.

Persuasion: The act of persuading, convincing, or urging another.

Persuasion is often more effectual than force. --AesopAesop WHY?

“The Pen is Mightier Than the Sword” Is this true?

Aristotle, the Greek Philosopher, Identified Three Appeals to Persuade: Ethos -- The appeal of the standing of the writer or speaker Pathos -- The appeal to emotion Logos -- The appeal to logic -- deductive reasoning and inductive reasoning.

Ethos An Appeal of the standing of the speaker or writer

Pathos An Appeal to Emotion

Logos An Appeal to logic

The Goal of Persuasive Writing The goal of Persuasive writing is to convince your audience that your ideas are valid, or more valid than someone else's using appeals -- Ethos, Pathos, Logos.

What is a Persuasive Writing? A persuasive writing is something you write to convince someone to agree with your claim and and to convince them to take an action. You use ethos, pathos, and logos to support your persuasive writing Your persuasive writing can be an essay, a letter or a memo

How Do I Write Persuasively? Consider your topic. Consider your audience. Brainstorm and map the evidence to support your topic. Prepare an outline. Use Ethos, Pathos and Logos Use a claim (thesis), Evidence and Warrant (Very important! More on this in our next lesson)