Rhetoric in Social Media - by Mallory Peterson

Often times when we think about social media, we think of ourselves, our friends and how we stay connected and up to date on people's lives. We also here frequently that social media is a way to promote ourselves in a narcissistic and egotistical manner. That social media is ruining the way people interact face-to-face and that it is causing modern day rhetoric to become less elegant in face-to-face communication.

In her article, Rhetoric in Social Media, Mallory Peterson wants the reader to consider an alternative view point to how social media is shaping modern rhetoric, or vise versa. Instead of viewing rhetoric as a way people publicize themselves to "claim fame" or to "gain followers"; she challenges people to consider how our own ethos is improved and built through our use of social media. She says instead of boasting about ones accomplishments, people can use social media to positively impact society and share their beliefs that they feel contribute in a positive way to society. Through the continuation of profile building, people share more and more information regarding what they like, their views, attitudes and beliefs and in this way, will create a more positive experience for those who view their pages frequently.

She also explains the use of pathos in social media in order to create and maintain public awareness to situations, changes or other events. She states that many charities seeking more support or donation will typically use pathos, or emotional appeals to draw in many of their supporters. In this part of her article/blog, Mallory is demonstrating yet another way in which social media has a positive effect on society and people's lives.

All in all, what Mallory wants us to take away is that modern day rhetoric is being changed because of social media; however, it is not always for the worse. In many ways, it is being altered in a way that lets individuals connect more with people who's views are similar to theirs and allows them to block people who don't have similar beliefs and attitudes.

https://sites.psu.edu/mallorypeterson25/2012/11/29/rhetoric-in-social-media/