PETA effectively uses appeals to mainly logos and pathos. Its FAQ section is very thorough and presents solid reasoning behind its mission to protect animal rights. By using shocking statistics (such as the fact that 16 pounds of grain are required to produce 1 pound of beef), the organization presents a convincing case for vegetarianism and its benefits as far as the environment. Pathos are an obvious appeal whenever images and videos are shown of the meat industry. A criticism of PETA is that they are too extreme. The organization may be acknowledging this concern in its decision to distance itself from the radical Animal Liberation Front.
The Guerilla Girls are a secretive group that I had not heard of before. By not allowing new members and by being so elusive, I think they limit their effectiveness in a way. People that want to join are told on the website that this may not be possible. The protest approach taken by this group is appealing - the use of humor and sarcasm are often not associated with a feminist protest, yet those are some of their strategies. With eye-catching billboards and signs, as well as the strange gorilla mask, this group is definitely unique. Guerilla Girls are less likely to offend people than PETA, as PETA takes a more stern approach and is more apt to recommend a particular change, while Guerilla Girls uses humor a great deal and is more likely to let the audience draw conclusions.
Both groups use a variety of mediums to reach their audiences, and I think that's important to reach a broad group of people. Examples included billboards, videos, photographs, and demonstrations.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
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3 comments:
I like how you commented on the limited effectiveness of the Guerilla Girls. I think it is a good point to make in that it differs from many other protest groups we have looked at this year. It seems that most protest groups are in the "recruitment" process for more members and therefore more support. However, I would guess that through their protests, the Guerilla Girls are simply seeking to provide public awareness for the issue and femenist ideas. Realiziing this, it appears to a less significant aspect of the group.
I agree with your comment about the approach guerrilla girls take to their protests, withing being sarcastic and funny, drops the stereotype of most feminist group. Which I believe is effective and helps gain a broader audience. I do also agree with your statement that the exclusiveness of the groups limits their effectiveness in a way. It is not as inviting and may loss possible supporters because they seem to not want new members.
Alex,
Your post emphasizes the logos that PETA uses, which is something that we talked about some in class. However, while we as a class focused on values, PETA does offer quite many statistics as well as testimonials and evidence to back up the claims that they make about the meat industry. I think this is a good point to bring up - nice work!
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