Evidence Oriented Rational Argumentative Essay

a. The rhetor uses evidence oriented rational argument in the form of authoritative evidence by quoting President Kennedy to further the point of the separation of church and state. Edward Kennedy cites information from President Kennedy, who gave a speech to the Greater Houston Ministerial Association, an address where President Kennedy speaks on the issues of religion. Citing evidence from President Kennedy is the dominant strategy that helps to simplify the issue and adds to the rhetor’s credibility. The rhetor also uses the credibility strategy with focus on extrinsic credibility by quoting a prestigious member of the Kennedy family, giving him authority for being related to President Kennedy. He quotes his brother, who is a well-known authority, because quoting someone of a higher power and respect gives him more of an advantage to persuade the audience. The reputation for being a member of the Kennedy family strengthens his argument and adds to audience agreement of his point.

b.
Kennedy uses the evidence oriented rational argument in the form of authoritative evidence when he mentions a quote from Dr. Falwell and builds his argument off of it. He brings up the quote from Dr. Falwell to gain the attention of the audience by citing from a familiar person recognized by the audience. The authoritative evidence is the dominant strategy that adds to Kennedy’s credibility as a knowledgeable rhetor on the subject of policy. Kennedy also uses narrative in the form of consubstantiation by creating a deeper connection with the audience through his reference to a statement by Dr. Falwell. Dr. Falwell said, “To stand against Israel is to stand against God”; since the audience is aware of this phrase, Kennedy uses it to create a relationship with the audience by addressing a line that they recognize. Using consubstantiation helps Kennedy create a deeper connection with the audience and furthers his argument of how both sides have similar understandings of moral