Read the excerpt from Dwight D. Eisenhower's Military-Industrial Complex speech and answer the question that follows
Throughout America's adventure in free government, our basic purposes have been to keep the peace; to foster progress in human achievement, and to enhance
liberty, dignity and integrity among people and among nations. To strive for less would be unworthy of a free and religious people. Any failure traceable to arrogance, or
our lack of comprehension or readiness to sacrifice would infict upon us grievous hurt both at home and abroad
In a response of 5-7 sentences
- identify one rhetorical appeal found in the passage
- identify one rhetorical device found in the passage
• evaluate the impact of the appeal and device on the passage as a whole
The rhetorical appeal found in the passage is pathos, as Eisenhower appeals to the emotions of the audience by emphasizing the importance of peace, progress, and liberty. The rhetorical device found in the passage is antithesis, as Eisenhower creates contrast between the values America strives for and the potential consequences of failing to uphold those values. The appeal and device have a significant impact on the passage as a whole, as they effectively convey the message that America must remain vigilant and committed to its core values in order to avoid harm both domestically and internationally. By using emotive language and contrasting ideas, Eisenhower emphasizes the gravity of the situation and encourages the audience to take action.
In this passage from Dwight D. Eisenhower's Military-Industrial Complex speech, one rhetorical appeal that can be identified is ethos. This appeal is evident in Eisenhower's reference to America's "adventure in free government" and the pursuit of keeping the peace, fostering progress, and enhancing liberty, dignity, and integrity. By highlighting these noble purposes, Eisenhower establishes himself and his audience as a free and religious people striving for virtuous goals.
Additionally, one rhetorical device employed in the passage is the use of antithesis. This is shown in the contrasting elements, such as "peace" versus "hurt," "arrogance" versus "readiness to sacrifice," and "at home" versus "abroad." With these opposing pairs, Eisenhower creates a sense of tension and highlights the potential consequences of failure.
The appeal to ethos and the use of antithesis have a significant impact on the passage as a whole. The appeal to ethos establishes Eisenhower's credibility and the noble intentions of America's government and people. This helps to persuade the audience to lend credibility and trust to his argument. The use of antithesis enhances the power and emphasis of his message by contrasting the positive ideals and the potential negative outcomes, thereby highlighting the importance of avoiding failure and arrogance. Overall, these rhetorical techniques contribute to the persuasive nature of Eisenhower's speech and help to reinforce his call for vigilance and caution regarding the military-industrial complex.