Guest Blogger: Shannon Brown

The writers of the Declaration of Independence effectively utilize the three appeals (ethos, logos, and pathos) in their document in order to force their viewpoint into the minds of all who read it. They open with the establishment of ethos, stating that “respect…requires” that the reasoning behind any revolt be named. Because the writers later name their grievances, this implies that they possess the needed respect to legitimize their writing of the Declaration. The credibility and ethical standing of the writers is therefore confirmed. They go on to state that “Governments…should not be changed for light and transient causes.” This implies that the writers are not acting on a slight discomfort in their revolt against Britain. Britain has committed severe transgressions during its rule of the colonies. This further establishes the writers’ credibility by emphasizing their caution and consideration. The writers conclude with an appeal to the “Supreme Judge of the world.” They argue that God is in agreement with their terms. In this way, the writers obtain credibility yet again. Logos is also used heavily throughout the Declaration, as in the introduction when “self-evident” truths are stated. The writers, through a series of logical syllogisms, establish their right to overthrow Britain’s hold on the colonies. This logical reasoning strongly supports the colonists’ decision to revolt. The body of the Declaration also exemplifies the writers’ logic. They thoroughly describe the King’s tyranny and explain why it justifies rebellion. Their logic is sound. Their argument is strewn with elements of pathos, as well. Throughout the body, emotionally powerful diction is used in order to strengthen their already sound appeals to logos and ethos. By naming the king a “tyrant” and his decisions “invasions on the rights of the people” as opposed to more delicate labels, the king and his decisions now have much more negative and emotionally charged connotations. This usage of pathos not only gains support from fellow colonists, but also forces their oppressors to view themselves in an unfavorable light. Ethos, logos, and pathos are as indispensible in swaying another’s viewpoint today as they were during the writing of the Declaration of Independence. Not just one or two, but all three appeals must be heavily employed in political speeches of the present day in order to shift society’s deeply set paradigms in favor of a particular political viewpoint.