The structural arrangement centered around James Baldwin’s argument is one of personal anecdotes, evoking emotion and building a relationship with his audience. He speaks on how his personal life and moments connect to the broader African American society, surrounding him with a sense of reliability and authenticity as he has lived these negative things he speaks of. On the other hand, William Buckley uses a more assertive and statistical arrangement, mainly relying on logos throughout his debate. With a snarky and condescending approach, he tries to captivate the audience and seem superior to Baldwin, inherently deeming his speech unreasonable. He relates race and facts to each other, trying to break apart Baldwin’s main message of unity and equality, and introduces a view that this issue isn’t entirely due to white Americans. He undermines the whole African community and their issues, trying to place the blame on them and remove the authenticity of their experiences. While Baldwin seeks unity and change, Buckley defends America, deeming that the opportunities are there, they just have to take initiative.
Ethos
James Baldwin builds ethos with his use of personal anecdotes of his experiences in America, helping establish a sense of credibility on the topic of the debate. With the use of these anecdotes, it helps the audience envision life in his shoes and the issue from a different perspective, which balances both sides of the argument.
William Buckley’s use of ethos comes from his authoritative stance and confidence during his speech. He portrays his ideas with conviction, demonstrating how he is an educated and trustworthy speaker with his sophisticated ideas on this topic.
Logos
James Baldwin’s logos comes mainly from the introduction of his speech, where he speaks about the different perspectives of the question at hand, the “Western system of reality”, and the cheap labor of African Americans. Baldwin’s use of history, facts, and logic appeals to the audience as it develops credibility for his argument. This bolsters his claims of the injustices faced by African Americans and gives a stance that is hard to argue against.
William Buckley develops logos with his use of statistics and history. By introducing comparisons between lynchings and the Irish, or incomes between the average white and black man, he appeals to his audience using facts and statistics, bringing a logical perspective into the debate.
Pathos
James Baldwin’s anecdotes of growing up in America serve as his pathos. Emotions such as anger, shock, and compassion are felt by the audience when hearing about injustices against African Americans. Through his storytelling of events such as being a kid, working “under someone else’s whip”, and Sherriff Clark, he aims to touch the hearts of his audience and enlighten them of the true nature of the African Americans’ experience.
William Buckley’s speech is deeply rooted in the use of ethos and logos, and his use of pathos is mainly evident in the sense of pride he tries to give his audience of America. He highlights America’s opportunities and freedom, being of the best in the world, aiming to evoke patriotism and gratitude in his audience.