Exploring Ethos

What is ethos? The term can loosely be defined as the “ethical appeal” an author is able to produce. However, this is an inadequate attempt at fully encompassing the true meaning of ethos. More common than not, an author is faced with the challenge of connecting to his or her audience. This can be done through self-disclosure and tone of voice. According to George H. Williams of the USC Upstate English Program, “Ethos" is used to describe the audience's perception of the [author’s] credibility or authority. The audience asks themselves, "What does this person know about this topic?" (Williams). In order to connect with an audience, the author must first establish a sense of trustworthiness, otherwise known as a clear and apparent form of ethos.  

This is what I was asked to do in my ENGL 1213 class, as I searched for my own ethos in writing arguments. The course assignments varied in topic and purpose, yet one common factor existed among the group. This connecting factor was discovering my ethos as a writer. As the semester progressed, I was able to examine my work and participate in developing my credibility and persuasive techniques.

As I reflect upon my first writing assignment, I notice my ethos is somewhat lacking. Although I do refer to myself as a “tech savvy diva” I do not offer any additional reasoning as to why my voice should be heard, let alone establish a sense of who I am. As I proceed in my writing, I do disclose information about my relationship to my mother, and her tendencies by saying I “[have] a mother who constantly feels the need to be updated on [my] every possible action of the day” (Bradshaw). In doing so, I offer up an aspect of my personal life in which I hope my audience will connect to.

It is clear that in my first writing assignment, I did not fully succeed in establishing an apparent ethos, although I did disclose personal information. I managed to reveal additional information including what sites contribute to my online identity, such as my “involvement in a social media” known as “Facebook”. In addition, I informed my readers of where I come from in my opening paragraph as I state, I was standing “in the middle of the Willowbend mall in Plano, Texas” (Bradshaw). This allows my audience to associate me with a cultural group of which I belong to.

In my second writing assignment, I was asked to “offer an explanation for a particular event or phenomenon caused from the advancement of new information communication technologies.” It is with this prompt which I feel the most confident in my work. I was able to deal with this prompt in examining the affects of the posting of the KONY 2012 video on Facebook, relating to activism. As I observe my text, I am confident in my credibility as I reference many sources, including the founding organization known as “Invisible Children.” I am particularly proud of my conclusion as to how I explain the human nature related to such phenomenon:

“The simple task such as clicking a “like” or “share” button may make up for the other areas in humanity in which we feel incompetent to fix. Lacking the means to make a difference, we trick ourselves into thinking that this simple act in a virtual world justifies our absence in the real issues. It is because of this complex that social movements such as Kony 2012 erupt in popularity in the early stages of their life span. With the technological advances available, it makes this second-hand activism more accessible and appealing than taking any real stand on the matter” (Bradshaw).

It is this rationalization, which seems to be an extension of myself. This idea of human nature exists in my own thoughts, which I then continued to reproduce in my text. It is because of this confession that I am most confident in this particular written work. As I feel I have accurately expressed my ethos and established a reliable credibility to my name. I projected a sense of enlightenment and feel confident that this idea can be perceived and understood by my readers.

As I reflect upon my experience in ENGL 1213, I am able to recognize a progression in the quality and confidence I exude in my work. Although I am not completely satisfied with my writing, I do feel as though I can see an improvement from the start of the semester. While I have gained a greater sense of what it means to succeed in writing arguments, I still realize the need for improvement. Writing should constantly be a work in progress, continuously evolving with each new thought. Just as you begin with an idea, and transform it into an outline, rough draft, and eventually a final draft, so should your ethos as an author.

Video Source: http://invisiblechildren.com

Williams, George H., Dr. "Ethos-Pathos-Logos-The-3-Rhetorical-Appeals." Dr. Williams : USC Upstate : English Program /. PB Works, 22 July 2009. Web. 11 Dec. 2012.

Media's Role In Communication

For those of you who tuned in last Tuesday to one of America’s highest-ranking nights on television, you fell witness to what is at the very core of every girl’s aspirations. Not that all women dream of growing up to become flawless super models that prance along a glitter-ridden stage in nothing but their knickers. No, that’s not the kind of dream I’m talking about. This one has a smidge more substance to it, which allows the female population to thoroughly thrive off it. It is the burning desire for confidence, which sadly falls much too short these days.

In an era where digital technology allows for a rapid and efficient communication experience, the media plays an astonishing role in shaping the viewer’s perspective. The media has access to reach millions, while simultaneously controlling the power of priming, agenda setting, and framing. When a news station or media outlet reports information, they have full disposition over what importance to place on certain issues, how to emphasize or exclude these facts, and even convincing their viewers how to think about particular issues.

 It is no wonder that with so much power, the media is successfully able to affect the opinions of majority of its recipients. Such a case can be seen when examining this year’s annual Victoria Secret Fashion Show. In an article written by Erica Ritz, she proceeds to narrate the racial dispute derived from a Native American motif worn by a model in the show. She states “model Karlie Kloss was seen in the fashion show last week with a massive headdress that reached the floor, turquoise jewelry, animal print clothing and tasseled heels” (Ritz). With increased publicity, the story eventually succeeded in eliciting a response and the company "apologizing....[pulled] the look from future broadcasting and advertisements"(Ritz). This call to attention of even something so meaningless as who-wore-what is simply a reflection of the media’s power. So what happens when the media starts to tell young girls that they have to be a size zero to be considered beautiful? And what risk do we face in exposing our youth to it by allowing them to fall witness to such atrocity? 

The Victoria Secret Fashion Show depicts women of confidence who are proud of their femininity and aren’t afraid to express it. They allow camera access to the mystery that backstage beholds, where they are vulnerable, and in the process of getting their hair teased and makeup airbrushed. This radical display of confidence, though it may represent an unrealistic body image, allows girls to know that it is okay to feel good about themselves and put themselves out there. It is the media reports and coverage after the show which cause so much controversy. By reporting that the VS fashion show makes women feel insecure about their bodies, the media is inadvertently telling their audience that it is an important issue to address and should be emphasized. While instilling their particular point of view is never the goal of a non-biased journalist, the cant but help to bestow it upon their audience.

Notice: Did you see model Karlie Kloss being interviewed? I almost didn't recognize her without her

luscious locks and headdress. 

Ritz, Erica. "Racist? See the Controversial Victoria’s Secret Outfit Yanked From 2012 Fashion Show." The Blaze. N.p., 12 Nov. 2012. Web. 11 Dec. 2012. <http://www.theblaze.com/stories/racist-see-the-controversial-victorias-secret-outfit-yanked-from-2012-fashion-show/>.

A Social Experiment: Life Without Digital Technology

It had only been a few hours, but I was already beginning to see the signs and feel the symptoms of the onset of withdrawal. My hands began to shake so fiercely that it took every fiber in my being to clench them tightly, as I frantically shoved them into the fleece pockets of my navy quarter zip. I continued to walk, with nothing but the sound of crunching leaves under my feet, and the crisp winter air stinging my face. Searching for anything that might serve as a shield against the harsh coldness, I nuzzled my face into the warm security of my wool scarf.   

Closing my eyes, I embraced the sweet smell of my Daisy perfume, and slowly began to forget about the cold. It was not until some time had passed that I began to notice an unfamiliar presence. The unannounced presence was unfamiliar and exotic, yet for some reason made me quiver. When I finally realized the foreign presence’s true identity, I was struck with the fear one can only associate with at a time of severe desperation. The presence belonged to a stranger who brought nothing more than twisted thoughts and insane delirium.

As the presence steadily grew stronger, I was forced to open my eyes and face the elements. Once my sense of bearing returned, I began to hastily walk through the vast acreage, which my father’s house sat upon. Feeling twigs break under my shoes, I quickly traveled through the wooded area and approached the front door. As I slid my frozen feet out of the scuffed up leather boots that armored them, I searched for an explanation.

It didn’t take long for me to realize what had happened. My desire for even the slightest source of connection to the outside world was in the process of driving me insane. Praying that such measures like lobotomy would not have to be resorted to, I walked into the kitchen and poured myself a cup of tea so hot that I could feel the steam emanate throughout my pores. As I let the steam and scent of jasmine fill my senses, I regained my composure and set out to find my sister.

It was our first thanksgiving ever to be celebrated in East Texas, at our dad’s new ranch. My sister and I had only ever stayed a night at a time since his move from the city. Unaware of the lack of cell phone reception and Internet connection, we came fully prepared with all of our technological outlets to channel the virtual world. As you can imagine, we were quite shocked when, 5 miles from our destination, we began to lose reception. With each declining bar, a heightened sense of fear crept over us. What were we going to do for three days without phones or Internet?

Our fear was put to ease as soon as we entered our father’s house. He greeted us with open arms and a warm embrace, exclaiming that he hoped we hadn’t gotten lost. Already prepared for the day’s events, we loaded up the back of his silver F150 with his most astute collection of rifles and pistols. As we approached his domestic shooting range, which sat under the tall shade of a large oak tree, I emanated nothing but excitement.

It wasn’t until I saw my dad taking pictures of us shooting that I suddenly began to feel the presence of the sleek silhouette of my iPhone 4 in my back pocket. Reaching for it, I hesitated, weighing the risk I would be taking at missing my turn on the firing line. As I returned my hand to its former position on the smooth metal of a Smith and Wesson 9mm, I concentrated on nothing but shooting my target.

It wasn’t until later that evening, sitting around the perspiring heat of a glowing bonfire, that I desired to once again check my phone. I wearily reached for it, and was overwhelmed with a sense of terror. The once-prized possession I had pleaded for so long to get was no longer where I had left it. Brusquely, I rose to my feet, and began my trek back up to the house.

As the cold seemed to wrap me up in a chilling embrace, impossible to escape, I finally reached the front door. I walked to the kitchen, only to find a pot of boiling water, my sister had been preparing, whistling at me. Immediately, I made myself a cup of hot tea, feeling the worry inside me slowly dissipate with each warming sip, and then called out to my sister.  What surprised me most was that instead of asking her where my phone was, I rather asked her if she wanted to roast some marshmallows and make s'mores.

Disclaimer: 

I ended up finding my phone the next day in the seat of my dad's truck.

Check Me In

As technological advances continue to rapidly progress it is no surprise that, of the various social networking sites, Facebook has acquired a new feature. This innovative new addition allows members of the site to detail their exact location with the click of a button. As the article “Facebook Introduces Check-In Feature” from CNN states, this technology “will allow people to use the GPS on their mobile phones to let friends know exactly where they are”. CNN then continues to explain the working details and privacy matters associated with the “check-in” button.

However, I can’t help but note the lack of concern for the safety of its users, expressed throughout the article. Only briefly touching on the subject does CNN bleakly explain several techniques developed to utilize and protect the Facebook member’s privacy. Seeing as how this article was written over two years ago, I can say for myself that the check-in button, although seemingly harmless, has actually caused me my fair share of headaches.

When it’s existence first surfaced, I naïvely took part in the charade. Playing practical jokes on my friends,  I would check them into random places such as “the projection room above the auditorium”. Yet, it wasn’t until I was abruptly awoken one night, to the incessant ringing of my phone, that I realized the true horror of this devilish new entity. I had been, without my knowledge, checked into a hospital by one of my friends and was, as a result, being ambushed by my mother’s parental concern.

Regardless of the wondrous features this article may advocate, the "check-in" button will continue to remain an unnecessary violation of privacy, in my book. I will never fully understand the reasoning behind my friend’s foolish act of stupidity, nor will I comprehend why my mother was on Facebook during the middle of the night, but if one thing’s for certain, it is my recognition that this development of the “check-in” button is no more than the gluttonous result of a digitally consumer-driven world.

Cable News Network. "Facebook Introduces Check-in Feature." CNN. Turner Broadcasting System Inc., 18 Aug. 2010. Web. 10 Dec. 2012. <http://articles.cnn.com/2010-08-18/tech/facebook.location_1_facebook-friends-facebook-executives-facebook-staff?_s=PM:TECH>. 

My One True Love

             I knew the moment I laid my eyes on the sleek silhouette of the iPhone 4s that I would not last a single minute longer without it. Having endured years of suffering with my half-chewed, antique of a blackberry, this was my chance to unleash the tech savvy diva lurking inside of me.  It was there, in the middle of the Willowbend mall in Plano, Texas, that I met what would soon be the love of my life. As the gleaming beauty of its true magnificence lured me into the Apple store, I could feel the worries of the world slowly drift into nothingness, along with the dollars in my bank account.  Holding my new found treasure firmly in my hands; I could tell that my life was about to change.

The iPhone 4s has enhanced my day-to-day life because it improves the communication experience with iMessage. Having a mother who constantly feels the need to be updated on your every possible action of the day can be difficult to cope with to some people; however, after the iphone came into my possession, I have been able to manage. The once menacing text after text asking if I had eaten lunch or studied for my poli sci quiz no longer annoy me thanks to the magic of iMessage. By turning on my read receipts I can basically avoid my mothers texts until I have the time at the end of my day to sit down and converse. If she asks why I didn’t respond? Simple! I didn’t see them; thus relieving the tension and annoyance that would have developed between my mother and I, and allowing for the easy flow of conversation at the designated (by me) time.

Not to say the iPhone is only useful to those of us with needy mothers. It is also beneficial because it allows its users to stay updated on other social communities that they are members of. Want to know an added bonus? For those of us brave enough to add our mothers on a social network, such as Facebook, we now have an additional way of keeping our moms feel included in our lives by the simple step of updating our status or posting a picture. This involvement in a social media allows me personally to keep in contact with distant family members, such as my great grandma in Colorado, and that second cousin I’ve met once at last years family reunion. It also allows for freedom of expression, because we all love posting those song lyrics that we feel relate directly to our lives, as if the song was written about you.

In addition, the iPhone 4s facilitates in the quality and efficiency of communication. I am able to send and receive emails, transfer money between my almost nonexistent bank accounts, text back the GroupMe i’m in with my roommates to tell them to replace my diet coke they drank, and even check the weather report all on one small handheld device. When you take into consideration the true definition of communication it can mean any message you wish to convey. The amount of information transmitted to me from my apps and vice versa in one day is almost too immense to believe. However, this colossal flood of nonstop communication of information can sometimes be distracting.

The iPhone 4s in all its glory does have its pitfalls. The distraction factor in using such a piece of machinery is alarmingly clear when I consider the amount of time I spend on my phone. It is always with me, always charged, and always in use. Does this mean that I am more tuned in to what’s going on in my phone’s virtual world than what’s going on in my actual current world of space?  Seeing as how I am the kind of person who texts someone  “I see you” instead of taking first initiative to walk my happy feet over to them to say hello, I would say so. So one can deduct that the iPhone may possibly de-socialize society and decrease the quality of face-to-face communication. Yet, we continue to rave over the iphone and all its advances in technology, perhaps revealing that we are willing to give up these once prized aspects of communication for a shiny new toy?