Rhetorical Analysis Of 'Defining The Anthropocene'

Rhetorical Analysis of “Defining the Anthropocene” Simon L. Lewis and Mark. A. Maslin explore the various reasoning’s behind the proposed epoch of the Anthropocene in “Defining the Anthropocene”. They study the factors that could contribute to the referral of the present as the Anthropocene epoch, such as the periods of time in history in which the “functioning of Earth as a system” (172), has been affected due to human actions. Their goal is to “constrain the number of possible start dates [of the Anthropocene], highlight areas requiring research, and assist in moving towards an evidence based decision” (172). Lewis and Maslin use the persuasive strategies of logos by providing plenty of facts from cited sources in order to provide reasoning based on the background information on human geology. Although these rhetorical strategies are used, they do not provide a concise point on what the authors opinions are, rather simply stating facts and considering both sides of the argument without actually confirming whether they believe the epoch should be established. Logos is one of the modes used in persuasion, utilizing the power of logic and reasoning to
Through the facts listed and information stated, the strategy of logos is clearly shown, using reasoning to argue their theories to the audience. This article provided several minor arguments using their facts, yet there was no overall driven argument, more of seeing the reasoning behind the two sides of the Anthropocene. A clear idea of the author’s argument would have helped the readers to decide whether they believe in whether the Anthropocene epoch is worth pursuing and if so, finding a specific date to begin to research more into what we can do to stop the cause of negative reactions based on our