Do you argue with logos or pathos?

When considering one's argument, one of the most important things to consider is one's modes of persuasion. There are three modes of persuasion: Logos (appeals to a person's intellect), Pathos (appeals to a person's emotions), and Ethos (which is essentially establishing one's own credibility).

All people use Ethos, it is nigh a requirement for an effective persuasive argument. If one does not establish oneself as a credible source of information, then their argument is rendered invalid, since it cannot be known whether or not they know what they are talking about.

The real difference lies in Logos and Pathos. Some people use one exclusively, but most put in a mix of both, to appeal to all listeners.

I personally use Logos far more than Pathos, only using the latter for audience considerations.

Which one do you use more often? If you have something to say about this poll, or have a relevant experience you would like to share, feel free to leave a comment.

100/0 Logos/Pathos 2
80/20 Logos/Pathos 16
60/40 Logos/Pathos 7
50/50 Logos/Pathos 12
40/60 Logos/Pathos 3
20/80 Logos/Pathos 4
0/100 Logos/Pathos 0
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Comments ( 5 )
  • It depends on the topic and intended audience

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  • Frosties

    I generally don't agree with any of the three musketeers.

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  • dodongos

    This is a tough one. I usually insult one's intellect using emotional points to get it across to them.

    Especially on topics like war. I challenge their knowledge and opinions with very drastic, and often emotional points.

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  • myownopinions

    I usually use logos, but if it's a personal arguement, then there always is a little pathos.

    My vote: 80/20

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  • I tend to respond emotionally which I prefer to do.

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