Read "A Modest Proposal" in it's entirety. Then, I want you post your reaction using
these questions as a guide.
1.
What tone does the speaker of this this pamphlet use? In other words, if this guy
were alive, what would he be like to be around? Is this tone effective/appropriate for
the subject manner?
Very matter of fact. To the point. very serious guy. Yes its appropriate.
2.
What structure does he use to shape is argument? What the main arguments/point
that he brings up?
Problem, solution, advantages. Way to populated, mothers can't support their children
3.
What are examples of 'logic' that he uses? From an objective stand point(not gut
reaction, do they have logical merit?
He backs up what he says. There are too many poor people. The benefits outweigh the cost. The only downfall is the population will be reduced.
4.
Go to www.logicalfallacies.info. What's a fallacy? What's an
example of a fallacy found in "A Modest Prosal"? What type of fallacy is it?
A faulty argument. Appeal to novelty, appeal to pity.
5.
What is your gut reaction to this piece of writing? Did your reaction/perception
change after you 'digested' the material and thought deeper?
It's kind of disturbing. Yeah i thought he had a point behind what he was saying. Not as literal.
6. Is this to be taken literally? If not, what is Swift's true purpose in writing this?
No he just wants people to stand up for their country b/c they were not a united country. And the problem isn't getting solved.
7.
Can you think of real life examples when people literally used twisted logic not in a
satirical fashion, but in a complete serious fashion to justify their actions?
The Japanese in California.
8.
Should all decisions be based on logic/reason(as the Enlightenment suggests) or do
gut instincts come into play?
I think that your instincts come into play the most. But it depends on the situation.
