ARISTOTLE’S PERSUASIVE PHILOSOPHY

Rhetorical Techniques

Rhetoric

Rhetoric is the art of speaking or writing formally and effectively as a way to persuade or influence people.

Rhetoric improves communication between the speaker and the listener which allows them to persuade the listener of the necessary ideas, or to make them do certain actions.

How is rhetoric used in the Calvin and Hobbes comic?

Rhetoric in Ancient Times

 Much of what we know about rhetoric we owe to the great Aristotle, who managed to give us a clear vision in his work “Ars Rhetorica ”.

Already in ancient times the speakers knew how to talk to an audience and be heard.

Who is Aristotle?

384- 322 B.C.E. An ancient

Greek philosopher well known for his theories on topics that range from morals and aesthetics, to politics and science.

Aristotle’s Rhetorical Techniques

Aristotle believed that the most effective approach to persuasion could be described in 3 techniques:

1) Ethos 2) Pathos 3) Logos

http://www.teachertube.com/viewVideo.php?video_id=41007

Aristotle’s Goal

Through Ethos, Pathos and Logos, the speaker incorporates all channels of communication. For example:

Persuasion

Logos: Targets language

Pathos: Targets

audience

Ethos: Targets author

1) Logos

Logos refers to the “logic or reasoning” presented. Today, many people may discuss the logos qualities of a text to refer to how strong the reasoning of the text is.

Do the ideas presented seem logical, realistic and practical?

2) Pathos

Pathos refers to “emotional appeal”. Pathos qualities of a text refer to how well an author appeals to an audience’s emotions. Pathos as “emotion” is often contrasted with logos as “reason.” Pathos also more closely refers to an audience’s perspective.

Do the ideas presented relate to our senses, stir us emotionally or personally connect to our experiences?

3) Ethos

Ethos refers to “trustworthiness”. Ethos more closely refers to an author’s perspective, and whether they are a credible source.

Are the ideas presented proven? Is the speaker knowledgeable and trustworthy?

Consider the comic once more. Does Calvin use ethos, pathos, logos or a mix of

persuasive techniques?