Persuasion Rhetoric: The art of persuasion.   Greek philosopher Aristotle divided the means of persuasion into three primary categories or appeals

Ethos (Credibility): Greek for “character” Based on an ethical appeal Convincing your audience by the character of the speaker (or author). Goal is to project an impression to your audience that you are someone worth listening to. You should make it clear that you are an authority on the subject, as well as likable and worthy of respect. Often conveyed through tone, style of message, word choice, and dress. May be impacted by the speaker’s outside reputation. Exs:

Pathos (Emotional appeal)  Greek for “'suffering” or “experience”  Persuading by appealing to the listeners’ emotions.  An appeal to pathos causes an audience to respond emotionally, but also to identify with the speaker's point of view-to feel what the speaker feels.  Often seen in narrative stories or examples in speeches. Exs:

Logos (Logical appeal)  Greek for “word”  An appeal based on logic or reason.  Having strong arguments (points) that clearly support your ideas in order to persuade your position.  The clarity of the claim, the logic of its reasons, and the effectiveness of its supporting evidence are key factors.  A clear structure of points and ideas may also play a role in projecting logos as you speak.  Avoid logical fallacies (everyone is doing it, because A is true B must be true too!) Exs: