What does 'pathos' refer to in persuasive speeches?

Pathos refers to the emotional appeal that a speaker uses to connect with the audience on a deeper, feeling-based level. In persuasive speeches, engaging pathos is crucial because it helps the speaker evoke emotions such as empathy, anger, happiness, or sadness, which can influence the audience's attitudes and beliefs. By creating an emotional response, the speaker can foster a sense of connection and urgency around their message, making the argument more compelling and memorable.

On the other hand, credibility or ethical appeal relates to the speaker's authority and trustworthiness, while logical appeal revolves around the use of reasoning, facts, and evidence to persuade. Techniques for summarizing key points do not directly engage the audience's emotions but rather serve to reinforce the message after delivery. Understanding the role of pathos enhances a speaker's ability to effectively persuade and resonate with their audience.