Critical Thinking: Critical Rhetorical Analysis
This Critical Thinking assignment is designed to provide you with experience in identifying and analyzing: A) rhetorical devices used for persuasion, and B) ambiguity in arguments.
Please read the items listed below concerning the topic of overseas outsourcing. Each makes various claims about workers outside of the United States:
- Van Heerden, A. (2010, July). Auret van Heerden: Making global labor fair [Video File]. Retrieved from http://www.ted.com/talks/auret_van_heerden_making_global_labor_fair.html
- Ballinger, J. (2001). Nike's voice looms large. Social Policy, 32(1), 34-37.
- Kripalani, M. (2004). Ban outsourcing? Bad idea. Businessweek, (3876), 64.
- Kibbe, C. (2004). Outsourcing: the good, the bad and the inevitable. New Hampshire Business Review, 26(14), 1A.
Analyze the effectiveness of the rhetorical devices used in at least two of the pieces that either challenge or support the use of overseas outsourcing by corporations. The goal is to connect these to what you might have seen, heard, or read in the media about the topic of outsourcing.
For each analysis please do the following:
1. Identify two rhetorical device(s) in each item you are analyzing.
2. Explain how and whether each device is effective in persuasion.
3. State why or why not each is a valid argument or may be construed as ambiguous.
4. Analyze in detail the presentation for validity, logic, accuracy, misleading statements, ambiguity, and credibility.
5. State your position on the topic of outsourcing.
6. Use additional citations as necessary to support your reasoning.
7. Back up your claims with in-text citations using at least two credible sources beyond the textbook.
Also:
- Apply the concepts learned through the readings and the course lecture. Remember that critical thinking is based on objective information and premises (claims), not on opinions.
- Your paper should be 4 to 5 pages in length, well written, and formatted according to CSU-Global Guide to Writing and APA Requirements.