“A Call for Unity” by Carpenter et al. makes use of logos and ethos to create a persuasive and convincing argument. By using these persuasive rhetoric appeals, Carpenter et al. manage to presents themselves and other non-Negro citizens in a favorable light by suggesting that they have “expressed understanding” (Carpenter et al. 1) and been “responsible citizens” (2). Negro citizens, however, are presented as opposition determined to undermine the “principles of law and order and common sense” (2) through the use of public demonstrations. This essay will explore the various persuasive devices used by Carpenter et al.. to determine how important they are in creating a successful and convincing argument. Carpenter et al. make use of …show more content…
Similarly, Carpenter et al.’s overall argument is a logos appeal that reads “A cause should be pressed in the courts and in negotiations among local leaders, and not in the streets.” (4) This statement appeals to the reader’s sense of logic and reason and is effective because it is a logical appeal that cannot be refuted. As you can see, from the opening of the letter, Carpenter et al. present a successful persuasive argument through the use of rhetorical appeals. They continue to use a mixture of rhetorical appeals and value/policy claims throughout the letter, which ultimately allows them to make a very successful and persuasive piece of writing. However, I feel that Carpenter et al.’s most successful appeals are those that combine or contain a mixture of both ethos and logos appeals. For example, they state “We recognize the natural impatience of people who feel that their hopes are slow in being realized. But we are convinced that these demonstrations are unwise and untimely” (2). This statement shows both an understanding and respect for other people’s points of view, and although it is debatable as to whether they sincerely believed this or not, this statement contributes considerably to their ethos appeal and also presents a believable appeal (logos). The combined ethos and logical appeal increase their credibility as authors and allows them to instill .
