Persuasive Techniques in Kilbourne and Graham’s Talks

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos:

• Dr. Jean Kilbourne (Slim Hopes):

  • Ethos: Kilbourne establishes herself as an expert by highlighting her extensive research and experience analyzing advertising’s impact on culture (ChallengingMedia, 2006).
  • Logos: She uses statistics and data on unrealistic body portrayals in advertising to support her claims.
  • Pathos: Kilbourne appeals to emotions by showcasing the negative consequences of unrealistic beauty standards, like eating disorders and low self-esteem.

• Ashley Graham (Plus Size? More Like My Size):

  • Ethos: Graham leverages her experience as a successful plus-size model to demonstrate the viability of body positivity.
  • Logos: She highlights the growing consumer demand for body diversity in advertising.
  • Pathos: Graham connects with viewers by sharing her personal struggles with body image and the importance of self-acceptance.

The Power of Images and Data:

• Kilbourne: She uses impactful visuals like before-and-after alterations of models in advertisements. This creates a strong contrast and exposes the manipulation used to achieve unrealistic beauty standards.
• Graham: Graham herself embodies the message of body positivity. Seeing a successful model who doesn’t conform to traditional beauty standards is a powerful image that challenges viewers’ perceptions.

Kairos and Modern Context:

Kilbourne’s message might resonate differently today due to:

• Increased awareness: Body positivity and social media movements have brought these issues to the forefront.
• Shifting beauty standards: Greater representation of diverse body types is emerging in advertising, although progress is ongoing (Business Insider, 2022).

However, the core issues Kilbourne raises – unrealistic portrayals and negative body image impacts – are still relevant.

Supporting the Work:

Ashley Graham’s success as a plus-size model following Kilbourne’s critique of the advertising industry demonstrates a shift towards greater body inclusivity. It shows the potential for change and the growing audience for diverse representation.

Personal Reaction:

The message of both speakers resonates strongly. Unrealistic beauty standards can be incredibly damaging, and media portrayals have a powerful influence. It’s important to challenge these norms and promote self-acceptance.

Kilbourne’s video might feel slightly dated due to the evolving media landscape. However, the core message remains crucial, and her historical analysis provides valuable context for understanding how these issues developed.

Source beyond Videos:

A scholarly article by Frederic Jameson [invalid URL removed] titled “The Cultural Turn in Late Capitalism” (1984) explores the pervasive influence of mass media and advertising in shaping cultural ideologies and consumer desires. This aligns with Kilbourne’s critique of advertising’s role in perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards.

Overall, both Kilbourne and Graham offer compelling arguments for body acceptance and challenging unrealistic beauty standards. Their messages are even more impactful when viewed together, demonstrating the historical context and potential for positive change.