Prompt: You are a rhetoric instructor trained in Aristotelian argument. For the following problem, please identify three possible examples of pathos, ethos, and logos that could be used to support the argument. Here is my proposed problem: Generative Artificial Intelligence is taking jobs from creative workers.
21 What Is Aristotelian Argument?
The Aristotelian or classical argument is a style of argument developed by the famous Greek philosopher and rhetorician, Aristotle. In this style of argument, your goal as a writer is to convince your audience of something. The goal is to use a series of strategies to persuade your audience to adopt your side of the issue. Although ethos, pathos, and logos play a role in any argument, this style of argument uses these elements in the most persuasive ways possible.
Here is the basic format for an Aristotelian, or classical, argumentative essay:
- Introduce your issue. At the end of your introduction, most professors will ask you to present your thesis. The idea is to present your readers with your main point and then dig into it.
- Present your case by explaining the issue in detail and why something must be done or a way of thinking is not working. This will take place over several paragraphs.
- Address the opposition. Use a few paragraphs to explain the other side. Refute the opposition one point at a time.
- Provide your proof. After you address the other side, you’ll want to provide clear evidence that your side is the best side.
- Present your conclusion. In your conclusion, you should remind your readers of your main point or thesis and summarize the key points of your argument. If you are arguing for some kind of change, this is a good place to give your audience a call to action. Tell them what they could do to make a change.
You Try It
Think about your problem and your proposed solution. Then use the following prompt with the LLM of your choice:
You are a rhetoric instructor trained in Aristotelian argument. For the following problem [or solution], please identify three possible examples of pathos, ethos, and logos that could be used to support the argument. Here is my proposed problem [or solution: Copy and paste your problem or solution into the prompt].
Here is an example:
ChatGPT: To support the argument that “Generative Artificial Intelligence is taking jobs from creative workers,” here are examples of pathos, ethos, and logos that could strengthen the argument:
Pathos (Emotional Appeal):
- Fear of job loss: “Imagine a world where the talents you spent years developing are replaced by a machine. For many creative workers, this is no longer a distant fear but a reality, as AI-generated content is taking over industries like writing, art, and design.”
- Impact on personal identity: “For countless artists, their work is not just a job—it’s a reflection of their soul. The rise of generative AI threatens to strip that away, leaving many to question their own worth and purpose.”
- Emotional toll on families: “As creative workers lose their jobs to AI, entire families face financial instability, leading to a rise in anxiety, stress, and uncertainty about the future.”
Ethos (Credibility/Character Appeal):
- Testimonies from displaced workers: Citing testimonials from skilled workers in the arts, design, and content creation who have lost their jobs or experienced reduced demand due to AI-generated work.
- Statements from industry experts: Referencing credible voices in the creative industries, such as leading designers or authors, who warn of the long-term consequences of AI taking over creative roles.
- Citing studies from labor organizations: Refer to reports or studies from reputable labor organizations or research institutions that document the impact of AI on the job market for creative professionals.
Logos (Logical Appeal):
- Statistical evidence: Present data showing the percentage of jobs in industries such as writing, graphic design, or music that have been replaced or downsized due to AI-generated content.
- Comparison of cost efficiency: Demonstrate how companies are increasingly opting for AI-generated content because of its lower cost and faster turnaround, resulting in fewer opportunities for human creatives.
- Trends in industry hiring: Show trends or case studies where companies in publishing, marketing, or media have actively shifted away from hiring human creators in favor of AI-generated alternatives, proving the argument with observable patterns.
These rhetorical strategies would help appeal to a broad audience, making the argument both relatable and logically sound (Open AI, 2024).
For a visual representation of this type of argument, check out the Aristotelian infographic below:
Here is the text of the infographic:
Introduction to Aristotelian Argument
The Aristotelian or classical argument is a style of argument developed by the famous Greek philosopher and rhetorician, Aristotle. In this style of argument, the writer’s goal is to be convincing and to persuade your audience to your side of the issue through a series of strategies.
Start here!
Before you begin, review your assignment and ask yourself questions about what you might want to write about.
Use prewriting activities, such as brainstorming or listing, to help develop ideas for topics and angles.
Do your research! Find credible sources to help you build your argument.
But there’s more! There are some important concepts you need to learn about.
Modes of Persuasion
- Ethos=credibility
- Pathos=emotions
- Logos=logic
Know Your Audience!
When writing a classical or Aristotelian argument, think about how you are going to be convincing to your audience!
Things to remember along the way…
- Clear thesis
- Support thesis
- Opposing views
- Cite sources
Sample Essay
For a sample essay written in the Aristotelian model, click here.
The information in this chapter was remixed from “Aristotelian Argument” by Excelsior Online Writing Lab (OWL). This site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-4.0 International License.
