Penrose and Geisler Classwork

Within the text, Janet directly states her purpose for writing the paper by giving a definition of what paternalism is. Although this is helpful, Roger does the same thing but in a much more effective way. Instead of giving just a textbook definition of paternalism, Roger appeals to the readers ethos and gives a possible real life example of how paternalism could actually influence both the doctor as well as the patient in his specific example. This not only grabs the readers attention, but gives the reader a better understanding of what paternalism really is. Roger’s writing helps to give a set of guidelines for writing better papers by first illustrating to the reader the topic the author is writing about, and making sure to do so within a situation that appeals to the readers ethos. Rogers also illustrates how both parties in this particular situation are effected allowing the reader to view an argument which is much less one sided.