Thursday, March 11, 2010

How Often?

Because I said so... Not good evidence, Not any more. Unforgettably, this type of evidence is used too often with my friends and family. They use there ethos to over ride any attempts to contradict their authority. The irony is, without data, extrinsic proofs, or the use of antithesis, they loose their credibility as a leader and as an authoritative figure. Why? These attributes are essential to making a meaningful proposition.

Contradictory to the fact that proofs, data and testimonies are good tools to use in propositions, they are not popular in modern rhetoric. Many people forgo these qualities and simply use fallacies to support their argument. Some how the art of argument and propositions have been lost throughout the generations.

Noticing how much I have learned and grown throughout my college career. Recently, I looked back on my scholarship essays that I have submitted to various organizations. I have noticed a huge difference between my reasoning in 2006 and now in 2010. Back when I was in high school, I did not know how to convey myself as a deserving student for a scholarship. Now, I utilize my knowledge that I gained in my college career. I have written a better essay and increased my chance of getting a scholarship.

In conclusion, being able to write an effective proposition is an asset. One should be encouraged to write effectively, and it should be reworded. I am being reworded by getting scholarships and doing well in school. These attributes are often over looked by modern rhetoricians, and it is truly unfortunate.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

Using live animals in experiments and product testing is an issue that stirs up a lot of emotion. Animal testing is an issue that continues to be debated and talked about. Many people are aware of this issue and I think that this is a good example of a rhetorical situation, and it should be examined. There are legitimate arguments on both sides of the issue, and reasons for their opposition. One reason for the opposition is the fact that the evidence from opposing sides is the product of different proofs. Logic and emotion act like game pieces in a giant match of chess. Who are the players in this game of chess? Logical proofs V.S. emotional proofs. With Testimonials V.S. statics, varieties of examples appear and are used to defend the opinions of the speaker. There have been many times this issue has been argued and people still continue to try to reach stasis on this issue. Here are some possible responses that the opposing sides might come up with.

Logical Proof Emotional Proof
Cost effective Animal abuse
Safety to humans Inhumane
Secure Morally wrong

I can see both sides of the issue. I can also see how these issues could end up being a tie. Personally, I hate to see any animal in pain or distress, so I am against animal testing. If I wanted to persuade an audience in which their opinion is differs from mine, I would argue with strong pathos. I would first let them know that I understand their evidence and I respected their ideas on the issue. The purpose in any argument is to find truth, so it is not good to burn any bridges. I would first show them that I understand their stance by presenting some information that they might bring up. This way, I can draw them in but then later refute their claims. Then I would hit them hard to refute their claims. Having a plan is a necessary asset in any argument.

It is important to take your time when making a claim that you are willing to stand behind 100 percent. The way to make a solid claim is by listening and understanding the audience. This takes time and intelligence, but the end result is successfully persuading someone. By showing respect and a genuine attitude to learn, one can open themselves to many opportunities to learn and become a better person.

Motivational e-mail

Ineffective E-mail

To whom it may concern,

I am writing you today because of the overwhelming feedback I have received from our customers concerning our customer service. You are not doing your job well enough. You need to use more care when speaking with our customers. You are losing this companies money by acting like a nincompoop. Do you understand me? You are responsible for the well being of this company, but your lack of common sense is running us into the ground. If you don’t care about your future, at least have the decency to not ruin ours. I understand things may be tough for you, it sounds hard being poor. You need to get past your misfortune and start producing people.

Now, I am going out of town for a few days. The family and I are getting away from the cold for a while and going to my private beach house in Florida. When I get back, things better be better. This company’s destruction will be entirely your fault if you keep doing what you are doing. Do I make myself clear? Grow up people.

Have a good day!

Andy Fox
CEO