'Ethos' and 'Pathos'

Ethos is the credibility. It shows how true or accurate an argument is. If the author writes from their own true experience or if they use facts and statistics, then one can be more confident that what the argument is stating is accurate. If the author also demonstrates their knowledge on a subject, then it will increase the credibility. The writer must also mention the alternative point of views and be fair and understanding towards them (empathy). The author should share his values and assumptions to show you that he is trustworthy. These things will strengthen one’s ethos in the argument.

Pathos can create positive emotions by getting the audience to identify with the writer. They must have legitimate appeal or else they will confuse the issue instead of clarifying it. It is good if these devices “intensify and deepen our response to an issue” as opposed to diverting our attention from it. If concrete language is used, then it will increase pathos. Photos or images are also useful tools that help engage the audience emotionally.

I think both our media and government use ethos and pathos to influence the public. When it comes to the War on Terrorists, and especially in Iraq, the media shows us clippings that cause us to become emotionally upset. These pictures graphically show soldiers dying, people rioting, or innocent civilians being killed. It makes U.S. citizens wonder why we are still in the war and why we are not bringing our soldiers home. These clippings have a strong emotional appeal. They make Americans wonder if the war in Iraq is really worth the deaths and uproar. It also points to the fact that we are not winning the war in Iraq and causes us to question the need to send more troops there.

The media and government also do not live up to the expectation for ethos. I believe that they do not always tell all sides to the stories. In Iraq, they only give us the negative parts. They are not showing how we are helping out the government or the people. It seems the media is always blaming someone and giving their points and saying they are right. However, you never hear other sides to the arguments, unless you either go to the right T.V. channel (where it gives both sides) or if you search for it on internet (blogs). Personally, I do not trust the media or government much as they each have their own agendas, and are well-versed at using ethos and pathos to influence their audiences.