Write A Short 3-4 Page Essay To Assess And Critique Eisenhow

Write A Short Essay 3 4 Pages To Assess And Critique Eisenhowers F

Write a short essay (3-4 pages) to assess and critique Eisenhower's Farewell speech (I have attached the transcript as well). When writing, use examples from the speech to support your ideas. Also, answer these questions in the essay: 1) What do you assess Eisenhower’s standpoint to be? (Consult our text for more on standpoint). Is his standpoint consistent with that of a career military man? If so, why? If not, why not? 2) What sort of speech is this? Is it informative, persuasive, invitational, or something else? Was it a special occasion speech? If so, what kind? 3) What were Ike's goals? What did he hope to accomplish? And what sort of language did he use – concrete or abstract or both? Cite examples. Was his delivery appropriate – meaning his pacing, pitch, vocal variety, etc.? 4) Is it well-reasoned? That is to say, does he engage in any fallacies? If so, are they intentional? Is he being honest or is he trying to twist his language to make his point? What was his ethos? Did his speech have logos? Despite his rather dry delivery, what evidence do you see of pathos, if at all? 5) What sorts of questions is he addressing: questions of value, fact, or policy (or all three)? Where? 6) Does he seem well prepared, rehearsed and practiced? How, if at all, does he use gestures to emphasize his points, such as? 7) If Eisenhower were delivering this speech today, what ideas would you suggest if you were helping him write, prepare and rehearse it? These are among the questions you might want to consider as you evaluate and critique this speech. You may wish to apply other course concepts as well. (PLEASE DO NOT WRITE A NUMBERED LIST OF QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS, IT IS AN ESSAY) Please include an APA References page on which you include any resources you think you might want to use. You do not need to include the speech on the References page but you will need to cite any remarks of his using the transcript as a source.

Paper For Above instruction

Dwight D. Eisenhower's Farewell Address, delivered in January 1961, stands as a seminal speech in American history, encapsulating his reflections on the nation's challenges and his hopes for its future. Throughout the address, Eisenhower demonstrates a nuanced stance rooted in his military background while addressing the complex interplay of political, military, and technological developments that threaten democratic institutions. His overall standpoint appears to be one of cautious optimism, emphasizing vigilance against the "military-industrial complex," which he fears might undermine American democracy if left unchecked. This perspective aligns with his career as a military officer and President, where discipline, vigilance, and national security are paramount, yet he also advocates for civilian control of the military, thereby balancing military experience with constitutional principles.

The farewell address can be classified as a ceremonial and advisory speech. It was delivered on a significant occasion—the end of his presidency—serving both as a farewell and a warning. Its tone is reflective, earnest, and admonitory, aiming to inform the American public and policymakers about emerging threats. Eisenhower’s goals were multifaceted: he sought to leave a legacy of wakefulness regarding the potential dangers of the military-industrial complex, reinforce confidence in democratic institutions, and urge the nation to remain vigilant in safeguarding peace and freedom. His use of language straddles the concrete and the abstract; he employs specific references, such as the "military-industrial complex," yet also appeals to universal values like liberty, national security, and vigilance. His delivery was composed, marked by measured pacing, steady pitch, and deliberate emphasis—appropriate for a speech combining advisory content with a somber warning.

Analytically, Eisenhower’s speech is well-reasoned, presenting logical concerns about the influence of powerful economic and military interests on policy. While some might see subtle manipulations of language—highlighting certain warnings while downplaying others—these are likely intentional rhetorical choices aimed at alerting the public without causing alarm. His ethos derives from his distinguished military and presidential career, giving him credibility and moral authority. Despite his typically dry delivery, he effectively appeals to ethos and logos; his references to his own experience lend credibility, while his appeals to national security are grounded in logical reasoning. Evidence of pathos appears in his emotional appeal to protect democracy and avoid complacency, fostering national unity and resolve in the face of potential threats.

In terms of questions of value, fact, and policy, Eisenhower’s speech predominantly addresses values—such as patriotism, vigilance, and democracy—and policy recommendations—specifically, the need for oversight of the military-industrial complex. The question of fact—that the military-industrial complex is forming—is implied and supported by his observations, while questions of value shape the moral imperatives of his warnings. Eisenhower seemed well-prepared, rehearsed, and practiced, delivering his points with clarity and deliberate emphasis. His gestures, though minimal, included purposeful hand movements to underscore critical points, such as when he warned about the “acquisition of unwarranted influence,” thereby reinforcing his cautions.

If Eisenhower were delivering this speech today, I would suggest that he incorporate more dynamic delivery techniques to enhance engagement, such as varied vocal inflections and strategic facial expressions. Given the technological context of today’s media landscape, he could also utilize visual aids—graphics or infographics—to underscore the influence of the military-industrial complex, making his warnings more tangible and accessible. Furthermore, modern speechwriting principles advocate incorporating compelling personal stories or testimonials to humanize abstract dangers, thereby strengthening emotional engagement (Vatz, 2005). Adjusting the language to be more inclusive and emphasizing shared democratic values could deepen the emotional appeal, fostering greater public awareness and action.

References

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