Ethos in President Obama's Inaugural Speech

President Obama uses ethos throughout his speech during his inauguration to appeal to his audience. Ethos is a persuasive tool that you use your character and morality to appeal to whom ever you are speaking to.

In his speech, Obama uses “we” and “our” and “together” numerous times throughout his speech. This appeals to people's character and morality because he is including himself when he talks about things people have gone through. He includes himself because he wants you to know he relates to the same things that everyone else does. He wants you to remember that he is like anybody else regardless of his career. “We will seize it as long as we seize it together.” This quote is significant because it he speaks about all the obstacles America has overcome and will always overcome obstacles as long as Americans stick together.

“It is now our generation's task to carry on what those pioneers began.” This quote talks about the current generation who is going to continue the progress of America. Together everyone contributes to the progress like it has been for many years. When everyone comes together to do something, it is usually accomplished because everyone wants the same thing. “For our journey is not complete until our wives, mothers, and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts.” This not only appeals to people's emotions, which is pathos, but it also proves that when people fight for what they believe in “together” great things can be accomplished such as the women's rights movement.

Some of Obama's movements are also a way to show ethos. He looks around as he speaks to make sure he speaking to everyone who is in front of him. Also, when he emphasizes certain words he'll lean forward a little and really look into the crowd to show that he speaking to them. This appeals to people because they want to know that he is talking to them. I've seen people that speak in public and teachers and professors who look up when they are talking and don't make eye contact. This somewhat bothers me because I want to know what it is exactly they are looking at. I'm more focused on where they are looking than what they are actually saying. When people look at you directly when they talk, you tend to listen more because you are being connected with eye contact.

Ethos is an effective way to persuade arguments and speeches. Obama uses ethos throughout his inaugural speech to connect with his audience.