Knowing your audience is crucial to a good argument. If you are unaware of who you are speaking to, your argument could fall flat. There are different strategies that can be used with different types of audiences. A speaker is not going to say the same thing about drunk driving to teenager as to middle aged parents.
A good thing to know is who your topic is going to impact. An increase in the film incentive would impact most of the state. It could possibly increase taxes; therefore all taxpayers would be affected. It would affect those who live in the Wilmington area greatly too. Seeing as there is a major studio here, many filmmakers would want to use this area. The people here would need to understand that shooting would occur where they live. It also impacts filmmakers and those who work in the film industry. A higher incentive means more movies. More movies means more jobs. This could be comforting to a lot of people who would be able to stay in the area instead of having to move to somewhere like LA.
You also need to know who is interested in your topic. The people who work in the film industry and want job security would be interested. This is because no one wants to lose their job and uprooting and moving away are not fun tasks either. Production companies would also be interested in a higher incentive. They are always looking for ways to cut down their budget and a tax break is a good way to do this. More studios would look to North Carolina as a viable location for shooting because of its competitive incentive rate.
The purpose of the side advocating for an increased incentive is to provide more jobs, stimulate the economy within North Carolina, and build a larger film industry in the state. They want to be a competitive part of this ever growing industry and want in on some of the profits.
The opposing side’s purpose is to protect the taxpayers. They do not want to be giving breaks to anyone who does not deserve it. They also do not want to have to raise the people’s taxes again, especially if the promised results take a long time to be seen.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Logos
Logos are appeals to logic. They are usually based in fact and reason. It is important for an argument to provide these two things so that the audience will believe what someone is saying. Often these types od arguments provide an audience with evidence. This evidence can be in the form of a chart, statistical data, cause and effect reasoning, or even performing a task in front of an audience. Aristotle said that there are two categories of logos or arguments based on facts and reason. The first is hard evidence. This is the statistics or testimonials. The second are those that are based more on reason and common sense: things that follow logically from a hypothesis.
Some of the logos that can be used when discussing the film incentive in North Carolina are the laws that have been created for it. A new law recently was put into action (on the first of the New Year) that increased the incentive from 15 percent to 25 percent. I should be able to find the actual law in the library because they have the state legislation on record there. Of course I would also need to take a look at the old law and see how they differ and what improvements were made.
In support of the incentive, I could provide data that shows the predicted increase in jobs and stimulation of the state’s economy. I am sure that there is data on how much revenue films can bring into a state and how successful other states are when they increase their incentives. I have also seen polls that have been conducted by local North Carolina news papers on how people feel about the issue. I could also interview some people from this area, seeing as there is a large film influence in Wilmington.
The other side of the argument could use contradicting facts. They could reason that with the economy the way it is no one is going to want to spend money on making movies. They could also argue that even with a higher incentive, production companies still want to film in larger urban areas such as New York City and Los Angeles, California.
Some of the logos that can be used when discussing the film incentive in North Carolina are the laws that have been created for it. A new law recently was put into action (on the first of the New Year) that increased the incentive from 15 percent to 25 percent. I should be able to find the actual law in the library because they have the state legislation on record there. Of course I would also need to take a look at the old law and see how they differ and what improvements were made.
In support of the incentive, I could provide data that shows the predicted increase in jobs and stimulation of the state’s economy. I am sure that there is data on how much revenue films can bring into a state and how successful other states are when they increase their incentives. I have also seen polls that have been conducted by local North Carolina news papers on how people feel about the issue. I could also interview some people from this area, seeing as there is a large film influence in Wilmington.
The other side of the argument could use contradicting facts. They could reason that with the economy the way it is no one is going to want to spend money on making movies. They could also argue that even with a higher incentive, production companies still want to film in larger urban areas such as New York City and Los Angeles, California.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Ethos
Ethos appeals to ethics. They are appeals based on the writer’s authority or credibility. In ethical appeals the author or speaker must present themselves in a way to make the audience respond. Audiences respond well to those who seem authoritative and trustworthy, usually those who have high qualifications and credentials. In order to appeal to a reader as a person with good character it is important that facts are used that have a valid source, and that shared values are highlighted. It is also important that the opposing view is acknowledged and respected. This shows people that, even with contrasting arguments, your side is should be agreed with.
Credibility is a crucial part of ethos. It shows the respect for the audience and honesty a writer. The easiest way to convey this is by stating facts, but also backing them up with research and reliable sources. I could use statistics from other states that have raised their film incentives to show that it has a positive effect, when arguing for a higher tax credit. States like Georgia and Michigan’s economies have grown sufficiently in this industry because of their high incentive rates. On the other hand, it may take time for this to occur and those who oppose could present data that shows the predictions for the near future, or the amount taxes would have to increase. Of course, for both sides, it is always necessary to use language that shows respect and intelligence.
Credibility can also be established by connecting with core moral beliefs held by an audience. When arguing for the incentive, I could argue that everyone who is willing to work hard deserves to have a job. However, others could argue that no one wants higher taxes.
It may be difficult for me to establish authority over this subject because I am not an active member of the film community or the state government. However, using statements from these people would establish some ethical appeal. The same could be done for the other side. Many Republicans in the state government oppose this, and getting their view and arguments on the subject would further enhance the ethos of a writer.
Until Next Time.
Maggie
Credibility is a crucial part of ethos. It shows the respect for the audience and honesty a writer. The easiest way to convey this is by stating facts, but also backing them up with research and reliable sources. I could use statistics from other states that have raised their film incentives to show that it has a positive effect, when arguing for a higher tax credit. States like Georgia and Michigan’s economies have grown sufficiently in this industry because of their high incentive rates. On the other hand, it may take time for this to occur and those who oppose could present data that shows the predictions for the near future, or the amount taxes would have to increase. Of course, for both sides, it is always necessary to use language that shows respect and intelligence.
Credibility can also be established by connecting with core moral beliefs held by an audience. When arguing for the incentive, I could argue that everyone who is willing to work hard deserves to have a job. However, others could argue that no one wants higher taxes.
It may be difficult for me to establish authority over this subject because I am not an active member of the film community or the state government. However, using statements from these people would establish some ethical appeal. The same could be done for the other side. Many Republicans in the state government oppose this, and getting their view and arguments on the subject would further enhance the ethos of a writer.
Until Next Time.
Maggie
Friday, January 15, 2010
Pathos
Pathos is a technique used to appeal to people’s emotions or an appeal to the heart. Pathos can be extremely effective in persuading the pubic, especially when used in addition to sound facts and reasoning. Techniques used to express these emotional appeals are often stark images or descriptive language, such as simile, metaphor, or figurative language, that can paint a picture in the reader or listeners mind. It is a very powerful tool that can be used to influence how others think and believe. When using emotional appeals you want your audience to make a connection with you or make them feel they owe something to others. Using this technique, it is possible to rally more support for your cause that logic and facts alone.
For my argument, the North Carolina Film Incentive, a big reason the incentive is important is because it will provide jobs for many people. Unemployment is a subject that is relatable because, in the current recession, it is not uncommon. Anecdotes are always a useful way to connect with people and make them feel they owe something to others. I could tell a story about how people will lose their jobs and be forced to move to big cities like L.A. or New York where the cost of living is much higher than here in North Carolina. I’m sure that I could find someone local who would greatly appreciate the extra work the incentive would provide because it would mean they wouldn’t have to move and they could finally pay the bills on time.
There are also many stories about filmmakers within North Carolina whose projects have failed because they were unable to fund them with such a low incentive. They had their dreams crushed because North Carolina did not provide and environment suitable for young, aspiring cinematographers. Everyone has a dream and everyone knows what it is like to be let down or experience failure. People feel pity for those who are so close but just cannot catch a break that a higher incentive would give.
On the other side, a higher film incentive would require a slight raise in taxes. No one likes it when taxes are increased. This can be used by the other side. Getting people angry is a good tool. Usually anger causes action. If people know that their taxes will go up because of an industry that is not essential to the state, they will become upset. Most residents of North Carolina do not participate in the film industry. Therefore they will not feel obligated to help those who do. Film can be seen as a shallow business that is only in it for the money, if it is portrayed that way. The opposing side could play this up and ask the question, Why should we help those who are already making millions?
Until Next Time.
Maggie
For my argument, the North Carolina Film Incentive, a big reason the incentive is important is because it will provide jobs for many people. Unemployment is a subject that is relatable because, in the current recession, it is not uncommon. Anecdotes are always a useful way to connect with people and make them feel they owe something to others. I could tell a story about how people will lose their jobs and be forced to move to big cities like L.A. or New York where the cost of living is much higher than here in North Carolina. I’m sure that I could find someone local who would greatly appreciate the extra work the incentive would provide because it would mean they wouldn’t have to move and they could finally pay the bills on time.
There are also many stories about filmmakers within North Carolina whose projects have failed because they were unable to fund them with such a low incentive. They had their dreams crushed because North Carolina did not provide and environment suitable for young, aspiring cinematographers. Everyone has a dream and everyone knows what it is like to be let down or experience failure. People feel pity for those who are so close but just cannot catch a break that a higher incentive would give.
On the other side, a higher film incentive would require a slight raise in taxes. No one likes it when taxes are increased. This can be used by the other side. Getting people angry is a good tool. Usually anger causes action. If people know that their taxes will go up because of an industry that is not essential to the state, they will become upset. Most residents of North Carolina do not participate in the film industry. Therefore they will not feel obligated to help those who do. Film can be seen as a shallow business that is only in it for the money, if it is portrayed that way. The opposing side could play this up and ask the question, Why should we help those who are already making millions?
Until Next Time.
Maggie
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
NC Film Incentive
The topic that I have chosen for my research is the North Carolina film incentive. It is a local issue that I find very important because I am a film studies major. It impacts my future because the more movies that are shot within the state of North Carolina, the more likely it is that I can get a job here. There are many jobs that can be found in this field because movies are constantly being made. However, a surplus of these jobs are in major cities such as Los Angeles or New York City. I would move to these places if need be. Nevertheless, it would make me extremely happy if I could stay here. I just find the other cities too big and overwhelming. It may just be a stereotype, but I feel that people who go there end up losing who they are. I think that Wilmington is a better fit for me. The people here are all really nice, friendly, and down to earth.
I also find this topic interesting because it affects the local community. Wilmington has EUE/Screen Gems Studios, located right on North 23rd Street. So, this incentive will not only change things in North Carolina, but also have a major impact on the immediate community. “One Tree Hill” is a major production, but it has been on for seven seasons and will probably be ending soon. This film incentive is critical. North Carolina needs to attract productions in and compete with other states with high tax credit rates.
Over the summer I found out about a local production company called Southern Gothic Productions from a friend of mine. It was started by three local people who are in the film industry. Via twitter they would post links to articles about the North Carolina film incentive. I found them very interesting because I had never really heard anything about it before. I found out that, in 2009, the tax credit given to producers if they made their films here was only 15 percent. Compared to other states, this was low. In June or July Wilmington lost out on shooting the Miley Cyrus/Walt Disney film “The Last Song” to Georgia, whose incentive was at 30 percent. Then Governor Perdue signed a bill to raise NC film incentive to 25 percent. I want to learn more about how films help the North Carolina economy and how raising incentives will aid in getting out of debt.
Until next time.
Maggie
I also find this topic interesting because it affects the local community. Wilmington has EUE/Screen Gems Studios, located right on North 23rd Street. So, this incentive will not only change things in North Carolina, but also have a major impact on the immediate community. “One Tree Hill” is a major production, but it has been on for seven seasons and will probably be ending soon. This film incentive is critical. North Carolina needs to attract productions in and compete with other states with high tax credit rates.
Over the summer I found out about a local production company called Southern Gothic Productions from a friend of mine. It was started by three local people who are in the film industry. Via twitter they would post links to articles about the North Carolina film incentive. I found them very interesting because I had never really heard anything about it before. I found out that, in 2009, the tax credit given to producers if they made their films here was only 15 percent. Compared to other states, this was low. In June or July Wilmington lost out on shooting the Miley Cyrus/Walt Disney film “The Last Song” to Georgia, whose incentive was at 30 percent. Then Governor Perdue signed a bill to raise NC film incentive to 25 percent. I want to learn more about how films help the North Carolina economy and how raising incentives will aid in getting out of debt.
Until next time.
Maggie
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Introductions
Well, I’m not really the best at introductions but here is some basic information about myself. My name is Margaret Muller, but everyone calls me Maggie. I am eighteen years old and my birthday is on May 8th. I live on Long Island in New York in a small town called Bayport- Blue Point. It is about an hour and a half away from the city by train. So, it is far enough away to keep out of all the madness, but close enough to visit every so often. I live right on the bay and grew up around boats, but I don’t know very much about them.
When I was in high school I twirled baton. Most people have a skewed perception of twirlers. Usually they are thinking about majorettes and color guard. It is an actual sport though; where people go and compete against other teams. We didn’t march in front of the band in weird costumes or anything embarrassing like that. It is basically like competitive dancing, but with a prop. It is also not as easy as people might think. I really enjoy scrapbooking too. I think it is a great way to keep memories in a creative way. My two best friends, Alison and Emily, and I have nights where we all work on a couple pages together. I absolutely love musicals, and wish I could sing so I could be in them. I’m actually listening to Bye Bye Birdie as I write this. (I saw it on Broadway over the winter break. John Stamos was in it and one of the actors from Spectacular, the Nickelodeon attempt at High School Musical. It was wonderful. However, the girl who played Kim seemed sick so she was slightly pitchy.)
This is my first year in college, so I’m a freshman, but I have enough credits to be a junior because of the AP classes I took in high school. I am a film studies major and am thinking about double majoring in theatre as well. I have always enjoyed movies and televisions, so I thought, why not try it out as a career? I have never been very good at English. Every single quarter in high school I got a 94 in English when all my friends were getting 99’s and 100’s. Don’t get me wrong, I love reading and keeping journals. But, I get confused with grammar and hate symbolism which I can never seem to find. I am looking forward to this class though. I hope to get better at writing and maybe finally enjoy an English class.
Until next time.
Maggie
When I was in high school I twirled baton. Most people have a skewed perception of twirlers. Usually they are thinking about majorettes and color guard. It is an actual sport though; where people go and compete against other teams. We didn’t march in front of the band in weird costumes or anything embarrassing like that. It is basically like competitive dancing, but with a prop. It is also not as easy as people might think. I really enjoy scrapbooking too. I think it is a great way to keep memories in a creative way. My two best friends, Alison and Emily, and I have nights where we all work on a couple pages together. I absolutely love musicals, and wish I could sing so I could be in them. I’m actually listening to Bye Bye Birdie as I write this. (I saw it on Broadway over the winter break. John Stamos was in it and one of the actors from Spectacular, the Nickelodeon attempt at High School Musical. It was wonderful. However, the girl who played Kim seemed sick so she was slightly pitchy.)
This is my first year in college, so I’m a freshman, but I have enough credits to be a junior because of the AP classes I took in high school. I am a film studies major and am thinking about double majoring in theatre as well. I have always enjoyed movies and televisions, so I thought, why not try it out as a career? I have never been very good at English. Every single quarter in high school I got a 94 in English when all my friends were getting 99’s and 100’s. Don’t get me wrong, I love reading and keeping journals. But, I get confused with grammar and hate symbolism which I can never seem to find. I am looking forward to this class though. I hope to get better at writing and maybe finally enjoy an English class.
Until next time.
Maggie
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