Category: uncategorised

Read the article written by Katherine Mangu-Ward and Jason Mars. Choose the author who you feel makes the more successful claim. Then, explain, using specific quotations and examples from the article, why you believe that this author has produced a better argument. To measure the success of the opposing pieces, think back to the rhetorical triangle:

LOGOS Logic, Evidence, and Reasoning

Logos refers to how the author uses:

Facts

Data

Statistics

Logical reasoning

Clear explanations

Cause-and-effect arguments

Questions to ask yourself:

Does the author provide logical reasons to support the claim?

Are facts, data, or evidence used effectively?

Does the argument make sense and follow a clear line of reasoning?

Does the author explain why or how something happens?

Example to look for:

“The author appeals to logos by using statistics about distracted driving crashes”

PATHOS Emotional Appeal

Pathos occurs when the author uses:

Emotional language

Anecdotes

Personal stories

Imagery that creates fear, concern, or empathy

Questions to ask yourself:

Does the author try to make the reader feel something?

Are stories or vivid examples used to create emotion?

Does emotional appeal strengthen or weaken the argument?

Example to look for:

“He uses pathos by describing the danger to families caused by distracted driving”

ETHOS Credibility, Trust, and Ethics

Ethos is about the authors:

Trustworthiness

Professional tone

Expertise

Moral reasoning

Sense of right and wrong

Questions to ask yourself:

Does the author sound knowledgeable and credible?

Do they use a fair, respectful, and professional tone?

Does the author reference expertise or experience?

Does the argument appeal to ethics or responsibility?

Note: While you may include your own personal opinions about responsibility for distracted driving, your discussion response must focus on the claims of your chosen author, not your own.

Overall Effectiveness Who Makes the Better Argument?

After analyzing logos, pathos, and ethos, answer these:

Which author supports their thesis more effectively?

Which one uses evidence better?

Which one uses logic or emotion more appropriately?

Whose tone is more convincing?

What specific quotations support your evaluation?

Why is this argument stronger?