Ethos, Pathos, Logos
Rhetorical Strategies
Rhetoric
• The art of using language to persuade
others. (OED)
Ethos
• Ethos is appeal based on the character of the
speaker.
• An ethos-driven document relies on the reputation
of the author.
• You want to ask yourself if the person persuading
you has authority or believability.
• Believe them because they are a good person,
that they are a trustworthy source.
•
•
http://youtube.com/watch?v=t7HnA7DjwGQ
http://youtube.com/watch?v=NqLWHvbRFO8&feature=user
Logos
• Logos is appeal based on logic or reason.
• Arguing point by using factual and sometimes
scientific reasons to persuade.
• Statistics, numbers, surveys, charts as proof of evidence.
• Concrete examples of experiences or evidence that have
already been tested and tried.
• Examples:
• Documents distributed by companies or corporations.
• Legal documents.
•
•
http://youtube.com/watch?v=-lOhDVQLDvo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1A9wGzJHPUg
Pathos
• Pathos is appeal based on emotion.
• Using human appeal--connecting to the
audience to draw a response.
• Example: Extreme Makeover Home Edition-uses stories of real life people that are heart
wrenching. (Ms. Sit always cries when she
watches this show!)
•
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Hyy5LURWTlw
•
http://youtube.com/watch?v=3JnwkY2L74c