This forum requires the viewing of two videos: the first is from Kilbourne’s website; the second is a TED Talk by Ashley Graham.
The first video is available via Dr. Jean Kilbourne’s website; Kilbourne is a renowned speaker who has made a career of presenting on her critical analyses of the effects of advertising on the American culture (Kilbourne, 2014). The video is of a brief excerpt (5:10) of Kilbourne’s talk “Slim Hopes,” where she aims to persuade her audience that our culture’s current obsession with weight stems from the powerful influence advertising has on our culture. In fact, she argues that “there is no aspect more pervasive or more persuasive than advertising.” Also, while not required, you may want to view her other videos which discuss the media’s influence on our culture’s attitudes regarding alcohol, tobacco, and sexuality (Kilbourne, 2014).
Slim Hopes: Advertising & the Obsession With Thinness
The second video is from a TED Talk by Ashley Graham, a model who is a major voice in body acceptance.
Plus-size? More Like My Size | Ashley Graham | TEDxBerkleeValencia
Also, study the chapter on persuasive presentations in our textbook. In light of the videos, the text, and your own experiences, respond to the questions below.
As you view these two presentations, consider the following ideas and questions; then, respond in the forum.
How did the speakers effectively address the appeals of ethos, logos, and pathos?
How do the images and data serve to persuade?
With regard to kairos and context, how may modern viewers respond to Kilbourne’s message as opposed to those who viewed these messages when they were first created (Kilbourne’s videos were made nearly 20 years ago)?
How does seeing Ashley Graham, a modern voice, support the work Kilbourne has been doing?
Finally, what is your personal reaction? Do you relate? Do you find the messages persuasive? Does the context or age of Kilbourne’s videos affect your receptiveness of her message?
Be sure to respond to your peers as well.
Aim to make your initial post to the forum no later than day four of this week. Also, to allow you to engage productively with peers, be sure to respond to the posts of at least two peers.
References
Kilbourne, J. (2014). Jean Kilbourne: Video. Retrieved from www.jeankilbourne.com/videos/
