How are Ethos, Pathos, and Logos used to improve public speaking?

Answer 1

Ethos, pathos, and logos are rhetorical techniques used to persuade or connect with an audience by appealing to different aspects of the audience's understanding and emotions.

Ethos is when the speaking establishes a sense of persuasion through the use of their own credibility, status or research. A common example we see in public speaking is when the speaker introduces themselves and their expertise. For example, “My name is _____ and I’ve spent 15 years doing research in the medical field” would make them a credible source to speak on a medical topic. 

Pathos is when the speaking uses emotion to appeal or persuade their audience. With this approach you are purposely evoking certain emotions to make them feel the way you want them to feel. One example we see in motivational speakers is using stories of how they overcame their past struggles to inspire others to stay hopeful and push forward in similar hard situations.

Logos is when you appeal to the audience's sense of logic.To use logos, the author makes clear, logical connections between ideas, and often includes the use of facts and statistics. Quoting research or including a fact in your speech is an example of using logos.

Using ethos, pathos, and logos allows speakers to connect with their audience on multiple levels, making their message more compelling, persuasive, and memorable. By balancing these three rhetorical techniques effectively, speakers can enhance their communication skills and achieve greater impact in their presentations.

Answer 2

Ethos, Pathos, and Logos are three persuasive appeals commonly used in public speaking to improve communication effectiveness:

1. Ethos: Ethos refers to the speaker's credibility, authority, and trustworthiness. By establishing ethos, speakers aim to build rapport with their audience and gain their trust. This can be achieved by demonstrating expertise on the topic, sharing relevant credentials or experiences, and presenting oneself as credible and reliable. When speakers establish ethos effectively, audiences are more likely to listen attentively and be persuaded by their message.
2. Pathos: Pathos appeals to the audience's emotions and values, aiming to evoke feelings such as empathy, compassion, or excitement. Speakers use pathos to create a connection with their audience on an emotional level, making their message more memorable and persuasive. This can be achieved through storytelling, vivid imagery, personal anecdotes, or appeals to shared values and beliefs. By appealing to emotions, speakers can engage their audience and inspire them to take action or change their perspective.
3. Logos: Logos refers to the use of logic, reasoning, and evidence to support the speaker's argument. Speakers use logos to provide factual information, statistics, examples, and logical reasoning to persuade their audience. By presenting a well-structured and logically sound argument, speakers can appeal to the audience's intellect and credibility, making their message more convincing and persuasive. Using logos helps speakers build a strong case for their viewpoint and address any potential objections or counterarguments.

In summary, by incorporating Ethos, Pathos, and Logos into their speeches, speakers can enhance their persuasive effectiveness and engage their audience more effectively. By establishing credibility, appealing to emotions, and providing logical reasoning and evidence, speakers can make their message more compelling and persuasive, ultimately achieving their communication goals more successfully.