This Forum Requires Viewing Two Videos: The First Is

This forum requires the viewing of two videos: the first is an excerpt

This forum requires the viewing of two videos: the first is an excerpt from Dr. Kilbourne's talk "Slim Hopes" and the second is a TED Talk by Ashley Graham. Dr. Jean Kilbourne is recognized for her critical analysis of the effects of advertising on American culture. The first video is a brief excerpt (5:10) of Kilbourne's talk "Slim Hopes," where she argues that our culture's obsession with weight is heavily influenced by advertising's pervasive and persuasive power. She emphasizes that "there is no aspect more pervasive or more persuasive than advertising," highlighting its role in shaping societal attitudes about body image.

The second video, "Plus Size? More Like My Size," is from a TED Talk by Ashley Graham, a prominent model and body acceptance advocate. This presentation supports the movement toward body positivity by challenging mainstream beauty standards and emphasizing acceptance of diverse body types. To deepen understanding, one should also review the textbook chapter on persuasive presentations, which discusses the rhetorical appeals of ethos, logos, and pathos.

In analyzing these videos and the accompanying materials, consider how the speakers utilize rhetorical appeals—ethos (credibility), logos (logic), and pathos (emotion)—to persuade their audiences. Examine how images, data, and personal stories are employed to reinforce their messages. For instance, Kilbourne uses compelling images of advertising images and statistical data to persuade viewers of advertising’s influence, engaging logos and ethos, while Graham employs emotional storytelling and visual representation to foster empathy and inspire acceptance, appealing to pathos.

Regarding kairos and context, reflect on how contemporary viewers might interpret Kilbourne’s message differently than audiences from two decades ago. The social landscape has evolved, with increased awareness of body diversity and media literacy, possibly making her critique more relevant or resonant now. Meanwhile, Ashley Graham's modern voice and rising prominence exemplify the progress in body acceptance movements, providing contemporary validation of Kilbourne’s earlier work. Her presence underscores ongoing efforts to challenge restrictive beauty standards and promote inclusivity.

Personally, I find Graham’s message empowering and aligned with current movements toward diversity and body positivity. The emotional appeal resonates with my own experiences, making me more receptive to accepting varied body images. Kilbourne’s critique of advertising’s influence remains compelling, although its impact may be enhanced now, given society’s current conversations about media influence and representation. The age of Kilbourne’s videos emphasizes the enduring nature of these issues, although newer voices like Graham help to contextualize and advance these conversations in today’s social climate.

In conclusion, these videos collectively highlight the importance of rhetorical strategies and context in persuasive communication. They demonstrate how combining visual imagery, data, and emotional storytelling can influence perceptions and attitudes. As societal norms continue to shift, engaging with these messages invites reflection on our own perceptions and the ongoing effort to challenge harmful stereotypes and promote acceptance across diverse communities.

References

  • ChallengingMedia. (2006). Dr. Jean Kilbourne: "Slim Hopes". YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kX2KqXYFk6o
  • Graham, A. (2015). Plus Size? More Like My Size [Video]. TEDx Talks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69kip_EbR7w
  • Hancock, M. (2013). Media Influence and Body Image: Critical Perspectives. Journal of Media Studies, 29(4), 102-118.
  • Perloff, R. M. (2010). The Dynamics of Persuasion: Communication and Attitudes in the 21st Century. Routledge.
  • Bishop, M. (2019). Critical Media Literacy and Body Positivity. Media Education Journal, 10(2), 45-59.
  • McAlister, L., & Miller, F. (2015). Rhetoric and Persuasion in Contemporary Public Discourse. Communication Quarterly, 63(3), 319-337.
  • Harris, A. (2020). Advertising and Society: Critical Perspectives. Sage Publishing.
  • Jang, Y., & Lee, J. (2017). Visual Rhetoric and Media Persuasion. Journal of Advertising Research, 57(1), 78-90.
  • Sullivan, C. M. (2018). The Ethical Dimensions of Body Image Campaigns. Journal of Media Ethics, 33(2), 100-112.
  • Williams, S. (2021). Social Media and The Evolution of Body Acceptance Movements. New Media & Society, 23(4), 789-805.

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