As students progress through their academic careers, they are often asked to engage in argumentation. This can be in the form of a persuasive essay, a debate, or a classroom discussion. While it’s easy to think of argumentation purely in terms of content and organization, it’s important for students to also consider the role of ethos in rhetoric.
What is ethos?
Ethos is one of the three rhetorical appeals, alongside logos (logic) and pathos (emotion). Ethos concerns the credibility and trustworthiness of the speaker or writer. In other words, the audience is more likely to be persuaded if they see the speaker as knowledgeable, honest, and reliable.
Why does ethos matter?
There are several reasons why we should encourage students to consider ethos when constructing arguments:
– Ethos establishes credibility: In order for an argument to be persuasive, the audience needs to see the speaker as someone who knows what they’re talking about. If a student is arguing for a certain policy position, for example, it will be more convincing if they have research to back up their claims and can demonstrate their expertise on the topic.
– Ethos creates trust: When we believe that someone is telling the truth, we are more likely to listen to what they have to say. Ethos helps to build this sense of trust between the speaker or writer and the audience.
– Ethos fosters engagement: When we feel that the speaker cares about the topic they’re discussing and is passionate about their argument, we are more likely to be engaged and interested in what they’re saying.
How can we teach ethos to students?
There are several ways to teach ethos to students:
– Assign readings or videos that illustrate the concept of ethos. This can include speeches by historical figures, TED talks, or opinion pieces from reputable news sources.
– Encourage students to evaluate the ethos of a given speaker or writer. What evidence do they have to back up their claims? Do they have relevant experience or credentials? Are they affiliated with a particular organization that might influence their perspective?
– Ask students to consider their own ethos when constructing an argument. What values or experiences do they have that make them an authority on the topic? How can they demonstrate their credibility to their audience?
Ultimately, teaching students about ethos is an important way to help them become more effective communicators. By understanding the importance of credibility and trustworthiness, students can construct stronger arguments and engage more effectively with their audience.
