What is Rhetoric?

Definition of Rhetoric Rhetoric (n) - the art of speaking or writing effectively. Content = WHAT Rhetoric = HOW

Rhetoric is HOW we give the impressions we give. HOW we say what we say, do what we do, write what we write. Rhetoric is all around us in conversation, in movies, in advertisements and books, in body language, and in art. We employ rhetoric whether we’re conscious of it or not...

The goal of persuasion is to change others’ point of view or to move others to take action.

...but becoming conscious of how rhetoric works can be transforming; this consciousness can alter our speaking, reading, and writing, making us more successful and able communicators and more discerning audiences.

Think about this in terms of online dating story. When posting pictures, people are conscious about the image they want others to see. Let’s look at a couple examples.

Aristotle and The Art of Rhetoric: Aristotle ( BC: Greece) More than any other thinker, Aristotle determined the orientation and content of Western intellectual history. Author of systems of thought we still use today—both in philosophy and science.

Aristotle’s Rhetorical Triangle: Aristotle believed that to make convincing arguments, writers needed to look at three elements: the speaker’s persona, the audience, and the subject matter. Writers must take into account all three--they are connected and interdependent.

What is logos, ethos, and pathos? Logos = Logic Ethos = Ethics, Image Pathos = Emotions (Passion)

Logos, Ethos, Pathos Using logos, ethos, and pathos will help you to master the art of persuasion. Through language, you will be able to change the point of view of others! Through language, you will be able to motivate others to take action!

Logos Logos is an argument based on facts, evidence and reason. Using logos means appealing to the readers’ sense of what is logical. Data from Star Trek: the computer dude

Logos Example Eighty percent of the writers interviewed said they write at least four rough drafts before they publish a piece of writing.

Ethos Ethos is an argument based on character’s credibility. 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. Captain Pickard: the captain of The Enterprise on Star Trek

Ethos Example “I have been teaching writing for twenty years...” Or “I am an ethical expert, so believe what I say.”

Pathos Pathos = argument based on feelings Using pathos means appealing to readers’ emotions and feelings. Counselor Troy from Star Trek

Pathos Example She stood before the class preparing to present her speech. She regretted not rehearsing the night before. Her knees shook, her breath grew shallow, and colored spots danced before her eyes. She gripped the podium and hoped she would not pass out in front of her classmates.

Review Logos = logic Logos is an argument based on facts, evidence and reason. Using logos means appealing to the readers’ sense of what is logical.

Review Ethos = Ethics / Image Ethos is an argument based on character. The writer or speaker presents him or herself to the reader as credible, trustworthy, honest and ethical.

Review Pathos = argument based on feelings Using pathos means appealing to readers’ emotions and feelings.