How does ethos attempt to persuade the audience?
Ethos is a persuasive strategy that attempts to establish the credibility, trustworthiness, and authority of the speaker or writer in order to persuade the audience. It aims to convince the audience that the speaker or writer is knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of speaking or writing about a particular topic.
Here are some ways in which ethos attempts to persuade the audience:
1. Expertise: The speaker or writer presents themselves as an expert in their field, citing their qualifications, credentials, or experience to gain the audience's trust. This establishes them as a reliable source of information.
2. Good Character: Ethos emphasizes the speaker or writer's moral, ethical, and virtuous character. They may use personal anecdotes, self-disclosure, or examples of their integrity to demonstrate that they are trustworthy and sincere.
3. Credible Sources: The speaker or writer may reference reputable sources, such as experts, studies, or statistics, to support their claims. This shows that they have done thorough research and are using reliable evidence.
4. Professionalism: Ethos relies on the speaker or writer's ability to present their argument in a logical, organized, and respectful manner. They use clear and concise language, avoid logical fallacies, and maintain a respectful tone to appear credible and persuasive.
5. Shared Values: Ethos relies on connecting with the audience's beliefs, values, and interests. The speaker or writer may emphasize common experiences, cultural references, or shared beliefs to establish a connection and gain the audience's trust.
By utilizing ethos, the speaker or writer aims to establish themselves as a credible and trustworthy source, which can lead the audience to be more open to their arguments and perspectives.