Before Watching:
- Be ready to pick out the individual propositions and premises in Jon Stewart’s argument.
- This argument will involve direct accusations and attacks on legislators’ commitment and performance. Can you think of ways in which attack or rebuke have served as effective persuasive tactics in your experience?
After Watching:
- What was Stewart’s main proposition?
- In what ways did Stewart support his claims? How did he seek to maintain credibility in the eyes of his audience?
- How did Stewart characterize the opposition to his argument? Do you think this was effective in persuading those who disagreed with his main proposition?
- Fill in the blank: Stewart’s main persuasive tactic was an appeal to ________.