The Food Revolution

One of the many orators I admire is John Robbins, author of such books as: Diet for a New America and The Food Revolution.  I was privileged to see John Robbins speak in a semi-private arena at the Santa Clara Convention Center around 2001.  John Robbins is the director for many nonprofit organizations concerned with the environment, health, world hunger, genetic engineering, and the welfare of all species.  As you can tell by the titles of both books mentioned, a central concern of his is with food and the world’s, in particular the United State’s, diet.  In 2001 I had just recently watched the Diet for a New America movie and was interested in hearing John Robbins speak on the issues addressed in the movie.  I remember how impressed I was with his public speaking abilities.  He was so relaxed and easy going, yet so enthusiastic and persuasive with his message.  I truly believe that John Robbins’ power to persuade does not stem from only one area, ethos, pathos, or logos, but from all three.  His credibility was previously established with the writing of his two books, one book being made into a movie, this is ethos.  As far as ethos he had a firm grip on both his emotions and was able to rein in control of his audiences emotions at appropriate times.  An especially touching narrative that he shared was about his childhood as the only son of the ice cream mogul that owned yes, Bascom & Robbins and how he left home to find a healthier, more humane living style.  As John Robbins spoke the logic, and logos, behind the suggestions he was making undeniable.  Almost every argument he presented was supported by at least two facts. 

As for me and my persuasive skills, well I would have to say it depends on the subject that I am speaking on and whom I’m trying to persuade, my audience.  In general my honesty and positive intentions toward people, and my critical thinking ability is one of my strong points, ethos.  That said, I do know how to work an audience with emotional appeal for sure, pathos.  Even though I have excellent critical thinking skills, logos may be my weak link.  Unless it’s a subject that I am well versed on or have explicit notes on, my weakest area would be logos.  It is sometimes difficult for me to back up my arguments with strong premises.