The Art of Argument: Rhetorical Devices & Persuasive Techniques

1. The Art of Argument: Rhetorical Devices & Persuasive Techniques

2. What Are Rhetorical Devices? • Rhetoric – the art of using language in order to make a point or to persuade listeners. • Rhetorical Devices – accepted elements of an argument. Using these does not invalidate or weaken an argument; rather, the use of these devices is regarded as a key part of an EFFECTIVE ARGUMENT

3. Rhetorical Devices • Repetition – the repeated use of words, phrases, or sentences • Ex: Stop the violence! We want to avoid violence! Stop the violence! • Parallelism – the repeated use of similar grammatical structures • Ex: The strength of the arm, the reach of the navy, and the speed of the air force are considered the source of national pride in the military.

4. Rhetorical Devices • Rhetorical Question – calls attention to the issue by implying an obvious answer • Ex: Shouldn’t civilized nations avoid cruel punishments, even for the most heinous acts? • Sound Devices – the use of alliteration, assonance, rhyme, or rhythm • Ex: The sound of the crowd protesting outside the gate drifted to the inmate’s ear and lifted his spirits.

5. Rhetorical Devices • Simile & Metaphor – Compares two seemingly unlike things or asserts that one thing is another. • Ex: The words in the book became a salve for her wounded soul.

6. What are Persuasive techniques? • These are often found in advertisements and in other forms of informal persuasion. • These should be AVOIDED in formal arguments.

7. Persuasive Techniques • Bandwagon Approach/Anti-Bandwagon Approach – Appeals to a person’s desire to belong; encourages or celebrates individuality. • Ex: Don’t be the only one without one! Be the first to own our brand.

8. Persuasive Techniques • Emotional Appeal – Evokes people’s fear, anger, or desire. • Ex: Our choices today will ensure the health and prosperity of our children! Of our children’s children!

9. Persuasive Techniques • Endorsement/Testimony – Employs a well-known person to promote a product or idea. • Ex: These famous authors, actors, politicians, and CEOs are alumnae of our university!

10. Persuasive Techniques • Loaded Language – The use of words that are charged with emotion. • Ex: It is a crisis of unfathomable proportions. • Hyperbole – exaggerates to make a point • Ex: I’d give my right arm to end the abuse and neglect of animals.

11. Persuasive Techniques • “Plain Folks” Appeal – Shows a connection to everyday, ordinary people. • Ex: I enjoy a good ol’ burger and fries, just like everyone else.