Analysis of Noam Chomsky’s Use of Persuasive Methods

Introduction

Noam Chomsky is an American linguist, social critic, and political activist. He is also a professor at MIT, renowned for writing numerous books on various subjects he has mastered (Wikipedia, n.d.). Chomsky's arguments are set against the backdrop of global politics, with a particular focus on the United States. He addresses a worldwide audience, expressing concerns about how humanity governs the world through politics and unwise actions. As Chomsky states, "Human intelligence has created a perfect storm. If it continues to rage, the human experiment is unlikely to survive very long" (Chomsky, 2017). His argument delves into moral responsibility, contrasting narratives, and the critical question: Is intelligence lethal? These themes are intricately explored throughout his work. Chomsky employs three persuasive methods to engage his audience: ethos, pathos, and logos. He emphasizes the moral responsibility of citizens for their actions and governmental influence, which can either improve or deteriorate societal conditions. This is the central theme of his argument, supported by logic (logos), emotional appeal (pathos), and ethical credibility (ethos). These persuasive techniques are crucial for Chomsky as he seeks to convey an urgent message through his argument.

Moral Responsibility and Human Actions

Chomsky's focus on moral responsibility is significant because human actions can have far-reaching consequences, both positive and negative. He critiques the creation and use of nuclear weapons and ICBMs, highlighting their potential for global devastation. As Chomsky notes, "The end of World War II was one of the most important moments in human history. It was a time of joy, and also of horror, with the dawn of the nuclear age, an age overshadowed by the dark realization that human intelligence had created the means for terminal destruction" (Chomsky, 2017). He argues that the United States has not taken adequate steps to prevent potential nuclear catastrophe, likening it to digging our own grave. Chomsky also addresses climate change, a crisis exacerbated by human activities, leading to what he describes as an uncontrollable and irreversible situation. He states, "The reasons in 2015–16 were the mounting threat of nuclear war and the failure to deal with climate change, which had not been considered before" (Chomsky, 2017). The question arises: Is intelligence a lethal mutation? Chomsky's use of the word "lethal" conveys his fear and urgency in raising awareness about these issues. The complex relationship between the USA and Russia is also a point of concern, as American foreign policy, intended to ensure safety, often has the opposite effect.

Persuasive Methods: Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

Chomsky uses ethos, pathos, and logos to provide evidence, emotions, logic, and credibility, persuading his audience effectively. Pathos, the emotional appeal, is evident as Chomsky conveys emotions such as fear, anger, betrayal, empathy, and hope. His anger stems from the misuse of technology and intelligence against humanity, expressing concern that our own intelligence might lead to our demise: "Modern humans emerged about two hundred thousand years ago. They now appear to be engaged in a dedicated effort to confirm Mayr’s thesis — to show that we have perhaps outlived our allotted time on Earth" (Chomsky, 2017). Despite this, Chomsky retains hope that humanity can avert self-destruction, stating, "There is also no guarantee that functioning democracy, with an informed and engaged population, would lead to policies that address human needs and concerns, including the concern for survival. But that remains our only hope" (Chomsky, 2017).

Logos, the logical appeal, is evident as Chomsky supports his claims with historical and biological facts, prompting readers to reflect and agree with him. He references the potential threat of ICBMs with nuclear warheads, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue: "Though the United States was indeed remarkably secure, there was one potential threat: ICBMs with nuclear warheads. They did not yet exist, but surely would" (Chomsky, 2017). He also uses biological evidence to support his statements, citing, "Mayr observes that we have one sample: Earth. There have been, he estimates, about fifty billion species on Earth, so we have fairly good evidence on biological success" (Chomsky, 2017).

Ethos, perhaps the most critical aspect for Chomsky, focuses on ethics and morality. He stresses the importance of morally responsible and ethically sound leadership, which would benefit society and reduce global threats. Chomsky uses ethos to help his audience comprehend the dangers we face, offering ethical guidance and emphasizing moral responsibility. He highlights, "Social justice measures also deteriorated through this period — the United States, in fact, ranks at the very bottom of the developed countries of the OECD in such measures, alongside of Greece, Mexico, and Turkey. But profits are booming, particularly in the largely predatory financial industry, which exploded during the neoliberal period, accounting for 40 percent of corporate profit right before the crash (for which they were, once again, largely responsible)" (Chomsky, 2017).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chomsky aims to make his audience aware that the world is imperiled by our actions. He underscores the positive impact of moral responsibility on global well-being. By presenting his argument with facts, emotions, anger, and hope, Chomsky seeks to instill a sense of urgency and realization that these issues require immediate attention and resolution over time.

References

• Chomsky, N. (2017). Title of the Book or Article. Publisher.
• Wikipedia. (n.d.). Noam Chomsky. Retrieved from URL