Glenn Beck from the New Yorker
Is Glenn Beck an effective rhetor? Explain why or why not. Why criteria are you using to decide whether he is a good rhetor or not? Do you think any of Beck's work rises to the level of an investigative report? Does Glenn Beck have ethos? How does he attempt to establish ethos and/or gain the trust of his viewers?
In my humble opinion I do think Glenn Beck is an effective rhetor because the purpose of a rhetor is to stand behind a principle and try to make his audience feel the same way, or to at least make them listen. Glenn Beck definitely gets his audience to listen, and he is not afraid to stand up for what he believes is right. Is he a good rhetor? In the actual definition sense, yes. He stands up for what he believes is right, and he definitely gets people to listen. However, there is a fine line between opinionated and radical, and he is coming very close to crossing that line. He does do some questionable things such as scream at the top of his lungs at some of his viewers for expressing what they believe. Does he have ethos? I would say he is passionate about what he believes in, but in regards to a human being, he will do whatever it takes to get to the top. He established a 9.12 group so his voice could be heard, he goes on book tours to promote himself, he acts the way he does so his ratings go up, so in the end he makes more money. However, his viewers see him as a voice of reason in a society that has no voice, or is afraid to use it. Everyone is afraid of the new healthcare plan and what it will do to American democracy, but no one will speak up. Glenn Beck is willing to speak up, but not without a price.That is what I feel Glenn Beck really wants. The money.
ReplyDeleteI think that Glenn Beck is an effective rhetor, due to the way he expresses himself no matt anyone else’s opinion on the topic. He always stands true to what he believes by backing it up with facts and having the support of higher ups. Another criteria that helped me decide if Glenn Beck was a good rhetor is the fact that he is a well known man who’s opinions are taken at great consideration due to his former knowledge and large following. I think some of Beck’s work does rise levels of investigation. I think that he has a very strong opinion and see’s things “black and white”, only one sided. I think that his viewers and followers are people who are all very similar to him. I think that Beck does have some very bias ethos, but he is a reliable and resource able person. This personal experience is very complex, and his efforts to give back in his own established group 9.12 are a perfect example.
ReplyDeleteGlen Beck appears to be the ideal rhetoric. He captivates his audiences and knows what to say and how to say it. Beck makes his personality as appealing as he can get. He has an “in-your face modest show of modesty” which is a form of ethos. He does not put on an act or try to be something he is not. He mocks himself by claiming he is fat, which establishes a relationship with the audience and helps present himself in a way that suggests he is no better than the audience members watching. Beck is very assertive in his opinions and blunt in his presentation of these opinions. He says what he thinks, whether it is not politically correct or socially acceptable. His quote of Obama being racist was by no means filtered or sugar coated. It is quotes and expressions like these that help make Beck an effective rhetoric. He takes freedom of speech to a new level and says what many people are probably thinking yet cannot publically express. Beck’s assertion in his dramatic views has created a loyal audience and proves that he is an effective rhetoric.
ReplyDeleteGlenn Beck is an effective rhetor. He express his opinions in ways that common citizens can relate to. Beck speaks out his mind and firmly stands by them with facts and proofs. When Becks voices his opinion about a subject he usually has his reasons for doing so. It is because of this he is able to capture the audiences' attention and accumulate followers. Many followers also agrees with his "negative, regressive take on politics" and his radical approaches. Many of Beck's claims and accusations do rise to the level of an investigative report. "to make the Obama Administration crash and burn" this intention has probably been red flagged. From the following passage I don't believe Beck tries to establish ethos. As a human being he probably has some sort of ethos but his opinions rarely shows any. For example his 9.12 project didn't contain "even a tinge of that post 9/11 spirit of generosity." His accusation about how the President Obama has a "deep-seated hatred for white people, or the white culture," seemed more of a stunt to boost his publicity. Overall Beck seems to develop a ethos with followers who shares the same opinion as him. Many continues to watch his shows and buy his books because as humans we want to see the opinion ofa radical.
ReplyDeleteAn effective rhetor communicates to their audience in an appealing and tactical manner in order to deliver their message as valid and well-supported. Although he is not your typical example, Glenn Beck is a compelling rhetor. Despite his critics, many people do believe what he has to say. If this wasn't the case, Fox News wouldn't be as popular, his books wouldn't sell, and his speeches would be unimportant. As a news show host, he naturally has ethos concerning American news. Rupert Murdoch's support of Beck's opinion of Obama solidifies Beck's inherent authority and ethos. Also, Beck's attempts to convey himself as a reserved American citizen complements his energetic and emotionally charged personality. This also helps Beck gain viewer's trust.He gets so heated and detail-hungry at times that he will dig deeper into a story than some of his contemporaries, which could constitute him as an investigative reportor of sorts. According to the article, he "uses his real or feigned bromance with the Founding Fathers to explain his crabbed selfishnesss." Again, he is attempting to justify his opinions by siding with our Founding Fathers. Yet I don't think our Founding Father's would agree to call the President a "guy with a deep-seated hatred for white people". Yet his ability to back up and have people listen to his radically conservative arguments makes him an effective and dynamic rhetor.
ReplyDeleteI think Glenn Beck is a very effective rhetor. He is able to reach a broad audience and by projecting his political beliefs. Beck discusses controversial topics in order to attract a captive audience. He voices strong opinions and does not care who they may offend. Some of his opinions are suspect. He can edit speeches or create false evidence that would require investigative reporting. It also can jeopardize his ethos. Beck uses a nature of persuasion when talking to his audience. However, some of his actions, namely, screaming at views demonstrate his passion for his beliefs. Some viewers appreciate Beck’s strong opinions and by doing so he is able to gain the trust of his viewers.
ReplyDeleteGlenn Beck, in my opinion, is an effective rhetor. He gets his point across in a unique and abrupt way. He says what he thinks when he thinks it without a filter. Some people will find this offensive, others commendable. He is a good rhetor because he gets people to listen and respond to his actions. However, some of these actions are questionable and definitely "raise an eyebrow" so to speak. Beck has a sense of ethos under all of his flashy actions. He does whatever he can to gain his audience's trust and respect. He has a "my way or no way" attitude toward his audience. If you agree with him, he has a strong ethos, and if you don't, you find him annoying. Glenn Beck can use all of these elements and change people's minds. He makes people listen to the issues that matter to him and he helps people know how to act on their own concerns. He sets an example for everyone to follow about standing up for what you believe in. That is why he is an effective rhetor.
ReplyDeleteGlenn Beck I would say is an extremely good rhetor. He uses his making fun of himself and he uses jokes about being fat to make himself appear to the audience that he is on the same level so that he can relate to them, an effective tool to being a rhetor. He goes about being rhetor by using his whatever comes to head comments, without care for other peoples opinions or ethics. Many people like his radical opinions and approach to politics, especially towards the obama campaign. His overall professionsal approach sways people to his opinions and draws them to believe what he says and not take him as some non itelligent fool. Moreover he is a very effective rhetor beacause he effectively stands up for what he believes in and ultimately gets people to join his side too.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, Glenn Beck has developed himself as an effective and proficient rhetor. By first looking at the definition of a rhetor (an eloquent or grandiloquent writer or speaker, an orator) one can successfully compare Beck to a true rhetor. Beck has in fact developed himself as a well-known writer, with not only multiple books, but many blogs. Also, combining with his writing ability, Glenn Beck is an extremely powerful speak. He has captivated audiences of many varieties and ages. Not only has he captured the listeners mind, but he also has his audience under his spell. Beck's followers willing put themselves into radical new ideas and activities, despite the majority of the nation's view of them. They have become Beck's loyal disciples and follow him indefinitely. All of Beck's characteristics and qualities make him an effective rhetor, and a masterful one too.
ReplyDeleteThe political agenda of Glenn Beck is questionable but his ability as an effective Rhetor is undeniable. Only last week, Beck organized a rally on the Lincoln memorial which attracted nearly 100,000 people. While the rally was considered controversial due to its timing (the anniversary of Dr. King ‘I Have a Dream’ speech), it still was the center of attention for media in the country and around the world. The techniques Beck uses during his television and radio show are unique and capture a massive American audience. Even though it is hard for me to listen to and even understand what Beck is saying in many of his frequent rants, it is easy for me to recognize the characteristics that make him so popular with Americans. For one, he is angry. All the time. And to be truthful, many Americans are too. They’re tired of paying taxes and not seeing the physical benefits. They’re tired of not being able to find a job, afford a nice vacation, new cars and other luxuries. Americans like being rallied together, take a look at the American obsession with football, and beck knows this. He uses this to his advantage to rally together a common American breed of right wing Christians. Beck tells them they are underappreciated, unrepresented and unfairly taken advantage of in government (even though in reality they did basically control the federal government from 2000-2006/8). His ethos is, well, that he’s an angry, ‘humble’ Christian who just wants America to ‘turn back to God’. Once again, while this doesn’t qualify as credibility to me, it does for many Americans who had a religious upbringing, are angry at with their financial situation and are usually susceptible to conspiracy theories (they’re fun!). If one questions whether or not Beck is an effective rhetor, just take a look at his ratings. He had an average of 1.8 MILLION VIEWERS on a FRIDAY NIGHT!! (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/05/18/glenn-beck-hits-2010-rati_n_580440.html). That is considerably more than other television newscasts (the ratings are in the link). As far as Becks ‘investigative reporting’ goes, according to dailyfinance.com, about 6 out of every 12 ‘facts’ are true (http://www.dailyfinance.com/story/media/honest-pundits-lies-glenn-beck-george-will/19610146/ Thanks to our professor for the link). So no, none of his reports are credible enough to be 'investigative reporting' because much of its information is probably a lie.
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ReplyDeleteIn my opinion I think that Glenn Beck is an adequate rhetor. His opinions and beliefs are very blunt but get the point across. His audience can relate to his opinions and his speeches in which establishes him as a good rhetor. However, due to his blunt attitude, many people may not like him and may not support his beliefs. Beck's straightforward attitude allows for his followers to support his ethos however many may not support his ideas. His ability to draw people's attention allows Beck to be an effective rhetor. Through his books, tv shows and blogs, Beck has established his points and belief allowing for him to become very wealthy. However, his fame and financial hunger may cause him to say things that other people are too afraid to admit. Glenn Beck is an effective rhetor because he has his own opinions and beliefs that persuade people to back him up.
ReplyDeleteGlenn Beck is a very effective rhetor. This is displayed by his principles that he shares with people. Some of which are so absurd no one would ever listen yet he has over 1.5 million viewers of his show. So in a sense where he knows how to get people to listen he an example of good rhetoric. I don't believe that his work should be at the level worthy of investigative report because I believe that he is just a cynic towards all government and if he doesn't get his way he speaks in a radical fashion. Beck is clearly well versed in politics and by stating "but what do I know" he is being cynical and sarcastic to attempt to show people his intellect. However, in the end Glenn Beck is very good at what he does and therefore is a effective rhetor.
ReplyDeleteWhile one may not agree with his extreme set of beliefs, it is indisputable that Glen Beck is an effective rhetor. His headstrong, hate filled rants have successfully caught the nation’s attention; whether his zealous standpoints makes his audience want to jump on his rallying “revolutionary” bandwagon or makes his audience spit with contempt and disgust, he is ultimately igniting a fervent emotion within every viewer. Beck establishes ethos with his loyal followers by portraying himself as your typical, modest right-winged conservative who is tired of seeing more taxes being created that will not benefit the tax payer. While Beck is far from a typical or modest American and has enough money where income tax makes little difference to his earnings, millions of viewers have found his TV persona to be credible.
ReplyDeleteFrom my point of view, I think Glenn Beck is an ideal rhetor with effective rhetorical skills. First of all, Glenn Beck claims everything he believes in, and everything he says is based on principles. For example, when he tries to explain his selfishness, he quoted the funding father, George Washington. Despite the fact that he may twist the meaning of George Washington’s quote, his voice sounds much stronger and convincing. Also, he acts the way he speaks. He does not claim himself to someone special. Rather, he describes himself as “a fatty” and “a clown.” He gives his audience, most of whom do not support Obama administration, the impression that he is easy to reach. With his “boyish crew cut, his rubbery, expressive face, his wide eyes, and his seemingly innocent smile”, his claims become even more convincing and reliable. In addition, Glen Beck sometimes might be a little over expressive on his talk shows, but he does give his audience a strong sense of ethos. Thus, I believe most of his works, such as the dispute over health care issues, reach the level of an investigative report. His ethos is demonstrated through the issues he talks about and the way he convinces his audience. Glenn Beck usually disputes what he believes in, which most rhetors are afraid to talk about. In the society today, in which most people are reluctant to speak out their thoughts, Glenn Beck’s voice becomes unique and draws a significant amount of audiences’ attention. Other than his effective rhetorical skills, Glenn beck also formed his groups to gain the trust of his viewers.
ReplyDeleteGlenn Beck is definitely an effective rhetor. Why would he be so well known if he wasn’t able to control an audience with his words? The main evidence I’m basing my decision upon whether he is a good rhetor or not is his credibility. Even though I consider myself moderate/liberal I respect his credibility that comes from his conservative radio talk show. He is also an established author and political figure. Without reading any of his works or hearing any of his debates/speeches one should be able to tell that he is an effective rhetor by reading about how successful and well known he is. I feel he isn’t really an investigative reporter because he doesn’t really dig around to uncover truths, he mainly just says his opinion on topics. I feel that Beck doesn’t try to use ethos, but his honesty gives him ethical appeal. He’s very straight forward about his opinion on topics and I feel that gives him ethical appeal. He attempts to gain trust with his honest opinion, his audience is people that have similar opinions as him. He delivers his information in many different means and is able to rally people that agree with him thus gaining their trust.
ReplyDeleteI do believe that Glenn Beck is an effective rhetor. He gets his point across and provides ratifications for his points, which makes him effective. The criteria I use to decide whether he is a good rhetor or not is how people react to his statements. People most definitely believe what Glenn Beck says, not all people but a good enough percentage that he is effective. I don't believe that any of his work rises to the level of an investigative report for one main reason: he almost always is giving his point of view on a topic that already exists. He is not going out there and finding new topics to discuss first hand, rather, he is finding popular, pertinent topics to talk about. Whether he has ethos or not is a matter of opinion I believe. Most of the perspective he gives is from one of non-involvement with each case. He couldn't possibly have that much experience that he could have ethos on all of his topics. He tries to convey ethos by seemingly knowing what he's talking about, but whether he's just pulling it out of his butt or not is another thing. His viewers have his trust because he shares the same beliefs as them, and since he is so outspoken about his beliefs, the people look up to him and give him their trust.
ReplyDeleteI believe that Glenn Beck is a very effective rhetor. He voices his opinion very clearly in a way that his audience can relate to and stands by it and supports it with facts. When Beck has something to say he is sure to capture his audience’s attention and accumulate more followers as well like a good rhetor should. He always stands by what he believes no matter what. Some of Beck’s work may be considered investigative, included his in depth views into the Obama administration. He is very passionate in what he believes in but he will do whatever it takes to get to the top. Most everything that he does is motivated by him getting more exposure or making more money. I feel however that he is able to gain his viewers’ trust by being a voice of reason in a society that doesn’t have one. All in all, Beck may have some good point but I believe that his is mainly in it for the fame and money.
ReplyDeleteI believe Glenn Beck is a very effective rhetor for a few important reasons. The way he is unique from other writers and authors makes his opinions and views really stand out. He is not afraid to stand behind his opinions that many would probably not agree with. I think when an author has a very strong stand point it makes his writing more persuasive to the audience. This quality is vital in a rhetor, and Glenn Beck definitely displays this quality. He also makes is easy to relate to him and therefore it is easy to see his point of view. His work would certainly rise to the level of an investigative report. I saw this the most in the investigation of the Obama administration. He used ethos strongly and it is evident in his writing because he backs up what he says. There is support to where he is coming from when he writes.
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