Rhetorical Analysis Of The Article 'The Aliens Have Landed'

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Mark Bittman, author of the article “The Aliens Have Landed” published on the New York Times April 2, 2014 issue, argues that we need to take action to stop climate change. Bittman begins to support his argument by comparing our ignorant behavior towards climate change to the “retreating French” during World War II. He then informs the recent news from the Panel on Climate Change to emphasize the negative effects, and sarcastically compares them to aliens invading Earth. He next proposes a public works project and provides several examples of what can be done to start addressing climate change before it is too late. The author’s purpose is to …show more content…
Fundamentally, Bittman argues that climate change will not be magically solved. He assures to his audience that once we show we are willing to take action, it will be easier because more people will follow our steps. The author offers historical examples, logical reasoning and rationale as his evidence. His reference to World War II contributes to his goal of proving that his suggested projects can be done. He reminds the reader what the United States has been able to achieve when they perform as an integrated nation. Bittman also makes use of ethos when he paraphrases the bad news from the Panel on Climate Change. “The negative effects of climate change are here, and they’re ahead of schedule.” Incorporating a direct quote from an authority is one of the most effective ways for an audience to find an article credible. He claims that past record-breaking weather and actual events like droughts that shouldn’t be news for his readers, but serve as a reminder. He exemplifies the negative effects of these events to add more strength to his statement. For instance, he mentions the reduction of edible plants in California caused by the drought, and the sea level rise caused by the melting ice. Bittman includes quotes from people who still don’t believe this events are a result of climate change. “Do you think that storm was from global warming?” As well as quotes from people that are surprised about how fast global warming advances. He presents these opinions as another verification of our lack of knowledge and poor awareness of our environment. In his conclusion, the author points out the leading role that Americans have in consumption. Even though it might not be a positive

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