Pathos on the Campaign Trail

In Ch. 2 of EA, Lunsford & Ruskiewicz prompt you to evaluate the relative the possibilities and pitfalls of employing pathetic appeals. Such appeals often dominant political discourse, here and abroad.

The first clip should be familiar: it's JFK's first inaugural address. Watch it, and consider how he appeals to the emotions of Americans, and consider what emotions he appeals to.



Secondly, let's take a look at what many consider the rhetorical highpoint of the current Administration. Consider Bush's use of pathos, both verbally and visually.



Third, check out the most famous ad of the campaign for the Democratic nomination.



Finally, let's consider some ads from recent campaigns. These won't require much analytical work, because our friend Jon Stewart has already done the heavy lifting: