A Rhetorical Analysis of James Ladsen and Joseph Epstein Essay

A Rhetorical Analysis of James Ladsen and Joseph Epstein - Essay Example The essay "A Rhetorical Analysis of James Ladsen and Joseph Epstein" talks about the hubris that can be defined as tempting to face, or otherwise thumbing one’s nose at that which is already predetermined. This ancient Greek term for insolence and arrogance to fate plays a powerful role with respect to the way how current culture is defined and practiced. Essentially, the culture that exists within the United States, and to a large part around the globe as a result of globalization, can be understood as one that places a fundamental level of importance on maintaining youth and vitality; even at ages in which these are all but an unrealistic hope. Accordingly, the following analysis will seek to engage the reader with a rhetorical response to Ladsen’s â€Å"The Natural Order† as it relates to the idea of hubris. Likewise, this rhetorical response will be compared and contrasted with Joseph Epstein’s essay â€Å"Perpetual Adolescence†. Through such a level of analysis, it is the hope of this author that the reader will come to gain a more valuable and nuanced interpretation of why our current culture is so fixated on the idea of perpetual youthfulness; and whether or not this is a positive or negative attribute. Firstly, in terms of Ladsen’s story, entitled â€Å"The Natural Order†, the author represents the internal and external dialogue that is taking place between a middle-aged married man and one of his longtime best friends. The middle-aged married man is indicative of what might be termed as a â€Å"conservative†.

Article critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Article critique - Essay Example Paragraphs are used to structure the arguments and to give a sequence to each point made. The language is quite concise and simple to understand. Not all important terms have been clearly defined. There is some assumption on the part of the author that the reader of the text is already familiar with the subject of Islamic tradition and culture to some extent. For example, terms such as ‘Sharia law’ and Gallup poll’ are not clearly explained but are used within the text. These terms are quite specific and require elaboration for those unfamiliar with such terminology. There is sufficient evidence for the arguments. Each point is very well backed up by reference to existing laws, literature, examples, quotations and arguments for powerful individuals in the field and supporting evidence of all kinds. Yes the arguments support the main point as they are highly relevant to the subject matter. By arguing and highlighting various differences in Muslim men’s and women’s rights under Islamic law and offering examples, this supports the overall claim that there is an injustice in this area which needs to be addressed. The text is appropriate for the intended audience for the most part. It offers a basic summary of the issue with some background and historical and political context and it is explained in a clear and structured way. However, there is room for improvement in that some terms should be more clearly explained. To an extent, the text helps me to understand the subject. It gives a background and societal context to the argument which is very helpful and it offers case studies and examples to highlight the points. In this way, it is quite simple to comprehend. One particular sentence evoked a strong response from me; â€Å"In the United States, many Muslim girls and women choose to wear hijab†. I found this sentence to be very surprising. The author states this sentence in the first paragraph immediately after