Ethos

File:Contemporary Feminisms and the Ethics of ethos." Ethos: New Essays in Rhetorical and Critical Theory. Eds. James S. Baumlin and Tita French Baumlin. Dallas: Southern Methodist University Press, 1994. 37–63.

Ethos is a Greek word meaning "character" that is used to describe the guiding beliefs or ideals that characterize a community, nation, or ideology. The term is also used in rhetoric to refer to the credibility or ethical appeal of the speaker or writer, one of the three modes of persuasion identified by Aristotle.

Etymology

The word "ethos" comes from the Greek ἦθος (êthos), which means "character" or "custom". In ancient Greek culture, ethos was a fundamental concept that referred to the character and values of a person or society.

Ethos in Rhetoric

In the context of rhetoric, ethos is one of the three modes of persuasion, along with logos (logical appeal) and pathos (emotional appeal). Ethos is concerned with the credibility and ethical character of the speaker or writer. Aristotle argued that ethos is achieved through the speaker's intelligence, virtue, and goodwill.

Components of Ethos

1. Phronesis: Practical skills and wisdom. 2. Arete: Virtue and moral character. 3. Eunoia: Goodwill towards the audience.

Ethos in Philosophy

In philosophy, ethos refers to the character or disposition of a person or community. It is often discussed in relation to ethics, which is the study of moral principles that govern a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity.

Ethos in Literature

In literature, ethos is used to establish the credibility of the narrator or characters. Authors use ethos to create a sense of trust and reliability in their storytelling.

Ethos in Modern Contexts

In contemporary usage, ethos can refer to the spirit of a particular culture or era. For example, the "ethos of the 1960s" might refer to the values and attitudes that were prevalent during that decade.

See Also

• Pathos
• Logos
• Rhetoric
• Ethics
• Aristotle