ILP 7- Essay 2 -Logos

Michael Walsh

Situated Logos

After analyzing the article the main message is the problem of obesity in America and the forecasted future statistical data regarding America’s population that is affected by obesity. It also states that something must be done or else the cost of healthcare in America will have to drastically increase. The article lists that obesity may rise to 42% by the year 2030, (the percentage is currently at 36%) , in addition severe obesity would increase from 6% to 11%. The article also lists statistics from the CDC or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stating that 147 billion dollars would be spent to treat obesity each year.  It also lists that even if the obesity level remained the same, the United States would save 549.5 million dollars from now until the year 2030. It also addresses the history of obesity in the United States using a bar graph to represent each decade and the percentage of the American population that was obese. In addition, the article lists a plan to prevent the rise in obesity.

Invented Logos

The text uses this evidence in many different ways to address the logos of the situation to create the need for a solution. The article primarily uses the evidence to appeal to the finical aspects of obesity. It first discusses how the percentage of obesity is on the rise and then addresses the costs associated with the problem. Then it also changes its approach to show how this is a new problem to the United States as obesity hasn’t been a problem in the past. Therefore, this presentation of the logos appeals to the values of America and how it is changing. For example, this is stating how previously it wasn’t a problem however with the increase of technology and availability it has now become a major issue. The logic of the arguments made in the text craft the author’s ethos because it is making appeals to the audience by using the evidence to reinforce the writer’s claims. It backs up his argument and provides the statistical information to become more credible. Also, using information provided from the CDC confirms the credibility of the statistical evidence.

Invention

For my final research project, I am discussing the need for change to the problem of obesity in America. Obviously, this is a very pertinent topic because it affects a large percentage of our population and is a very current issue that demands a solution before it gets too serious. The evidence I will need to create my own claims on this topic will have to be statistical information on the cause and widespread severity. In addition, I will need information on how to address the problem and the potential solutions to the issue. Obviously there is no direct solution or else it would have been implemented, therefore increased research is also necessary on new ideas. Several possible claims of logos that could support a possible hypothesis for my research paper include the information from this article from the CDC on how the issue is a recent problem and what happened in America to create the problem. Also I will address the psychological influence on obesity that allows the problem to continue. I need to do future research, however there is a wide amount of information because it is such an important topic in the United States in the current time period.  

Hellmich, Nanci. "USA TODAY." USATODAY.COM. N.p., 08 May 2012. Web. 03 Mar. 2013.