Which rhetorical appeal does a speaker use when citing statistics from a scientific study?

Question

Accepted Answer

Logos. Citing statistics from a scientific study is an example of logos, the appeal to logic and reason. Logos relies on evidence, data, facts, and logical reasoning to persuade an audience. Statistics provide concrete, quantifiable evidence that supports a claim through rational demonstration rather than emotion or authority.

Ethos is the appeal to credibility and character - it would involve the speaker establishing their own qualifications or expertise. Pathos is the appeal to emotion, which might use vivid imagery, personal stories, or emotionally charged language. Kairos refers to the timeliness or appropriateness of an argument in a particular context, not the type of evidence used.

Understanding the three classical rhetorical appeals - ethos, logos, and pathos - is essential for the Rhetorical Analysis section of the CLEP College Composition Modular exam. While a single passage may employ all three appeals, test-takers must be able to identify which appeal a specific strategy represents. Data and statistics consistently fall under logos, personal anecdotes under pathos, and credentials under ethos.

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