Pathos trial. The Approach Pathos Takes 2022-11-09

Pathos is a rhetorical device that appeals to the audience's emotions. It is often used in public speaking and persuasive writing to create a strong emotional response in the audience and to persuade them to take action or adopt a certain point of view.

One example of the use of pathos in a trial setting is in a criminal trial where the prosecution is trying to persuade the jury to find the defendant guilty. The prosecutor might use emotional language and storytelling techniques to paint a vivid picture of the crime and its impact on the victim and their loved ones. They might describe the suffering and emotional trauma experienced by the victim and their family, and use emotive language to try to evoke feelings of sympathy and outrage in the jury.

Similarly, the defense might use pathos in an attempt to humanize the defendant and elicit feelings of compassion and understanding in the jury. They might describe the defendant's background, upbringing, and any extenuating circumstances that may have contributed to the crime. They might also try to appeal to the jury's sense of fairness and justice, and argue that the defendant does not deserve to be punished severely.

In either case, the goal of using pathos in a trial setting is to create an emotional connection with the audience and to sway their decision-making. While it is important to consider the facts and evidence presented in a trial, emotions can also play a significant role in how people perceive and respond to a case. By appealing to the audience's emotions, speakers can try to influence their decision-making and persuade them to take a certain course of action.