Rhetorical Analysis on Obesity
The obesity epidemic is rapidly spreading throughout America, reeking havoc on the nation. I have chosen two articles that discuss this issue and use different rhetorical strategies to convince the reader of the causes of this deadly epidemic as well as different aspects of the disease that should be focused on when researching treatments options. Examining the different rhetorical strategies used in the articles proves that, although logos arguments can be a good way to convince an audience of your point, use of ethos and pathos arguments is a much more powerful strategy to inform and convince the reader to take action.
Peggy Ward-Smith’s article entitled Obesity – America’s Health Crisis discusses of the obesity epidemic in America and the consequences of America’s lackadaisical approach to pursuing a cure to this deadly disease. She explains the devastating health affects that obesity has on the body and brings to light the severe financial burden that this disease has had on the American economy and the American people. After significantly describing facts and figures regarding the monetary costs associated with obesity, she goes on the explain the emotional hardships obese people undergo due to the prejudices that still exist against obese people. She describes the strain obesity has caused on our healthcare system and declares that not enough is being done to prevent this disease. After addressing both the health and socio economic affects of obesity, voices her opinion on the best treatment plan for overcoming obesity such as, “an initial exercise program should consist of a short, low-intensity program, which gradually increases to 30 minutes/day as strength and fitness improve” (Ward-Smith 244). She also addresses the importance of acknowledging the affects of behavioral therapy on obesity, for health and socio economic benefits saying, “behavioral therapy involves changing diet and physical activity patterns and habits toward behaviors that promote
Peggy Ward-Smith’s article entitled Obesity – America’s Health Crisis discusses of the obesity epidemic in America and the consequences of America’s lackadaisical approach to pursuing a cure to this deadly disease. She explains the devastating health affects that obesity has on the body and brings to light the severe financial burden that this disease has had on the American economy and the American people. After significantly describing facts and figures regarding the monetary costs associated with obesity, she goes on the explain the emotional hardships obese people undergo due to the prejudices that still exist against obese people. She describes the strain obesity has caused on our healthcare system and declares that not enough is being done to prevent this disease. After addressing both the health and socio economic affects of obesity, voices her opinion on the best treatment plan for overcoming obesity such as, “an initial exercise program should consist of a short, low-intensity program, which gradually increases to 30 minutes/day as strength and fitness improve” (Ward-Smith 244). She also addresses the importance of acknowledging the affects of behavioral therapy on obesity, for health and socio economic benefits saying, “behavioral therapy involves changing diet and physical activity patterns and habits toward behaviors that promote
Bibliography: Levitan, Robert D., and Caroline Davis. "Emotions and Eating Behaviour: Implications for the Current. Obesity Epidemic." University of Toronto Quarterly 79.2 (2010): 783-799. Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. 6 Apr. 2011. Ward-Smith, Peggy. "Obesity -- America 's Health Crisis." Urologic Nursing 30.4 (2010): 242-245. Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. 6 Apr. 2011.