Saturday, September 1, 2012

“…the only thing we have to fear is fear itself…”


Franklin Delano Roosevelt spoke these words during his first inauguration as the 32nd President of the United States. In front of a country that was deep in the woes of depression his words were up lifting and provided hope to a down trodden society. This was only the first of many memorable speeches Roosevelt would deliver in his lifetime. Strong and confident in his delivery his words were backed by an overwhelming conviction that commanded attention. As with all great speakers he was a master of all three methods of persuasion; however I believe the majority of his power was delivered through the ethos method. He was a very accomplished man before being elected president and his confidence in not only his abilities, but the abilities of this nation, were at the forefront of his delivery.

If I had to attempt to categorize what little power of persuasion I possess I think I would fall more in line with the pathos method. I have always considered myself to be a highly empathetic individual and will always try to consider the thoughts and feelings of others before I speak. Although I always try to be as logical and factual in my arguments as possible I believe that any persuasion I may hold would come from a place of emotional connection with those I am speaking to.

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