Persuasion in Obama’s Back-to-School Speech: A Pragmatic Study

Abstract

This study uses Aristotle's ethos, pathos, and logos rhetorical framework to give a pragmatic analysis of the persuasive techniques used by Barack Obama in his ‘Back to School’ speech to the students. This study aims to analyze how Obama persuades the student (audience) by using these persuasive arguments to build credibility, arouse feelings, and apply logical reasoning. The approach centers on locating distinct ethos, pathos, and logos moments within the speech and examining the rhetorical implications of those instances. The study emphasizes the rhetorical devices—such as personal tales, allusions to his own experiences, and the use of inclusive language—that were employed to create Obama's ethos. It examines the use of emotional appeals, such as tales of tenacity, optimism, and common goals, to establish a connection with the students. Furthermore, the analysis looks at how Obama persuades the students with his message by using reasoning, factual data, and logical arguments. The results illustrate how well Aristotle's rhetorical framework explains Obama's use of persuasion techniques in his speech. This pragmatic approach advances our knowledge of persuasive discourse and sheds light on the strategies employed by well-known speakers to captivate and inspire their listeners.