Week 4 Discussion Post #3

Consider a well-known speaker, for example, the current President of the United States (or Presidential candidate). What is this speaker's strongest characteristics as a speaker? Is it credibility, attractiveness, power, or all three? In what ways could the speaker build ethos in these areas?

Many of the students have mentioned it, and I too feel that Barack Obama is a person who encompasses all three characteristics in a positive way, which make him a memorable speaker. I think he is emotionally attractive- he appeals to a wide audience and most people can relate to what he speaks about.

Obama is very articulate, well read, and educated, and he knows what he is talking without being condescending. It seems like he really cares about his cause, and this in itself, gives him power. His words are his power, and he is able to connect with the audience through his ideas and goals.

Obama is credible by connecting with his audience and giving them reasons to trust and believe in him. He doesn’t seem like a salesman trying to sell something to the audience. He is very endearing, and his promises and hopes are toward a positive common goal for the country.

Obama’s ethos could be built in these areas by him continuing to share his ideas and hopes for this future and continuing to be articulate in his concepts and goals. I think as long as he stays true to himself and the needs of the audience (ie the country), his speeches will be effective.