Exploring the Rhetorical devices in Personal Testimonies within the Abortion Debate.edited
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Exploring the Rhetorical Devices in Personal Testimonies within the Abortion Debate
The film depicts two different personal experiences and displays a heated discussion over abortion. The
first speaker considers the possible difficulties that would arise if getting an abortion had been more
difficult while also reflecting on how easy it is to have one and expressing appreciation for the chance to
do so. Meanwhile, the second speaker recalls originally selecting an abortion but subsequently regretting
it and carrying the pregnancy to term, having a healthy child.
This debate transcript uses a number of rhetorical devices, such as:
Personal anecdote:
To arouse feelings and establish relatability, both speakers use personal tales. The
first speaker emphasizes the comfort and empowerment of simple abortion access to elicit empathy
from individuals in similar situations (CNBC Television, 2022). The second speaker's story of remorse and
redemption may resonate with anyone facing comparable decisions that evoke regret and optimism.
Emotive language and imagery:
This includes the purposeful use of words and phrases such as "luck,"
"heal and grow," "radical change of mind," "feeling all those emotions," and "life I almost missed out on"
to arouse certain feelings in the audience (CNBC Television, 2022). These emotional appeals try to
change minds or elicit empathy by connecting the speakers' experiences to the audience.
Contrasting perspectives:
the pairing of the two stories highlights the difference between the
experiences of those who had abortions that went well and others who at first regretted their choice.
This dramatic difference highlights abortion's intricacy and multiple effects on people (CNBC Television,
2022). It draws attention to the abortion debate's complexity by emphasizing the varied viewpoints and
experiences.
Probably on purpose, both speakers employ these rhetorical devices. They endeavor to persuade, create
empathy, and show abortion's complexity. Since this is a very personal and divisive subject, their goal is
to connect the audience emotionally. They intend to personalize the subject and change the audience's
opinion about abortion by sharing their own experiences.
In conclusion, the speakers use personal anecdotes, emotive language, and contrasting perspectives to
help the audience comprehend and feel the abortion debate's complexity and impact on individuals.
Reference
CNBC Television. (2022).
In Their Own Words: The abortion debate
. Www.youtube.com.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZb0OPC5pm0
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