In Writing Arguments, the authors base many points around “the core of an argument”. This core, or piece of an argument, is the element that sets up the persuasion that by the end of the work will have garnered the intended response from the audience. Enthymeme was defined by Aristotle and is the word that refers to an audience’s ability to fill in the blanks using their preconceived ideas (75). Thus, an author tells readers what his intent is and the readers will impose their own beliefs into the argument. The author hopes that his argument will in effect, speak for itself, but it also relies on the intelligence of the audience and their preconceive notions for further support (75).
In order to set up an audience to believe in a position, the writer must employ different methods to support enthymeme. The Toulmin System is an example of this. Once an audience is on board to believe an argument the author can then use different methods to relate factual data and concrete evidence to further solidify an argument with readers (89). The STAR method can be used to make sure that criteria for a strong set of supporting facts are presented (89). STAR stands for: sufficiency, typicality, accuracy, and relevance (89). It is also important to make sure that data comes from reputable sources and to be aware of biases and other influencing factors when citing sources for an argument (91). These areas are representative of logos.
I feel that it is ethos and pathos; however, that can really move a audience. While it is important to have accurate data and facts, humans are an emotional creature and thus are swayed by emotion and personal stories. That is why it is very important to include ethos and pathos in an argumentative paper.
Ramage, John D., John C. Bean, and June Johnson. Writing Arguments: A Rhetoric with Readings. 8th Ed. New York: Longman, 2010.
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