A Rhetorical Analysis Of Aspartame And Donald Rumsfeld

This advertisement shows rhetorical appeal through the use of logos and pathos. It reinforces the need to stop consuming diet sodas. The picture also appeals to the audience’s sense of life preservation. Aspartame and Donald Rumsfeld are shown in the background surrounded by lightening representing danger on both accounts. The main focus of this propaganda photo advertisement is on the young girl fighting a type of blood cancer. The girl in the photo is unaware of the link between diet soda and cancer, as she continues to drink a diet soda. Rumsfeld greatly influenced the approval of aspartame by the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regardless of the negative outcomes from short and long term studies. The studies on aspartame
He accidentally spilled some aspartame on his fingers and realized it tasted sweet. Searle, in order to obtain FDA approval for aspartame to be a food additive, began safety studies. The first study of seven monkeys resulted in one death and five having grand mal seizures. Other study results revealed holes created in the brains of mice. “Additional research revealed that aspartame was converted in the body into dangerous substances that could cause severe damage to brain cells, epilepsy, brain tumors and other cancers, as well as death due to methanol or formaldehyde poisoning”(“Health & Stress 1”). Searle, concealing negative results, reported to the FDA that no health problems presented during the safety studies. After investigations into the manipulative safety study data, criminal charges were filed against Searle in 1977. Donald Rumsfeld, having powerful political connections, was hired by Searle as chief executive officer. Rumsfeld used his connections to disolve the charges against Searle. Although charges were disolved, the FDA would not approve aspartame until the brain tumors created in animals resolved. “Rumsfeld bragged to subordinates that he would use his political pull to guarantee approval for aspartame (NutraSweet). Ronald Regan was sworn in as president and immediately suspended the FDA commissioneer. Rumsfeld, who was Reagan’s transition
The supporters of artificial sweeteners choose to believe the information given by Searle and Rumsfeld, that aspartame is safe and harmless dispite the negative study results received, and the misrepresentaion of those results to the FDA. The information collected regarding the adverse reactions, side effects and critical symptoms of aspartame poisoning, give probable cause for additional research in order to preserve the quality of human life. Aspartame, presumed safe for human consumption, is potentially a hazardous health