A Lesson on Rhetorical Devices: Ethos, Pathos, Logos

What is Rhetoric? Rhetoric (n) - the art of speaking or writing effectively (Webster's Definition). According to Aristotle, rhetoric is "the ability, in each particular case, to see the available means of persuasion." He described three main forms of rhetoric: Ethos, Logos, and Pathos. In order to be a more effective writer, you must understand these three terms. You will better understand their meanings which will make your writing more persuasive.

Three Forms of Rhetoric… Ethos Logos Pathos

Ethos (Credibility) Ethos: the source's credibility, the speaker's/author's authority Ethos is an ethical appeal or an argument from the author's credibility. This type of argument is most effective when it is aimed at a target audience of individuals who are already familiar with the author's previous successes. It is also used by charismatic personalities who can obtain the trust and respect of an audience quickly, such as motivational speakers.

Ethos Example: Product: George Foreman and his Grilling Machine Repertoire: Boxing Champ and a Preacher Why is George Foreman credible?

Logos (Logical) Logos: the logic used to support a claim (induction and deduction); can also be the facts and statistics used to help support the argument. Persuading by the use of reasoning. An effective and persuasive reason that supports your ideas.

Logos Example continued… Few of our children breath fresh air in their schools, which are being sprayed, inside and out, with millions of pounds of deadly, nervous system destroying pesticides. What are the details provided in this claim?

Logos Example: Idea: Students should be allowed to use cell phones during school hours. List three supporting facts and/or statistics that will support the aforementioned idea.

Pathos Pathos is the means of persuasion that elicits a strong emotional response from the audience. Most television advertisements utilize this form of rhetoric by inspiring the viewer to desire a specific product or service from the argument that the subject of the advertisement will fill a certain "void" in the viewer's life.

Pathos (Emotional) Pathos: persuading by appealing to the reader's emotions. Emotional appeals, are used to persuade. Language choice affects the audience's emotional response, and emotional appeal can effectively be used to enhance an argument. How? Anecdotal writing or narratives within persuasive writing

Pathos Example: How does this advertisement appeal to emotion? Why?