Final answer:
To persuade the cashier's innocence, using ethos, which entails establishing credibility, could be the most effective strategy. This can be supported by a work record or co-worker testimonies. Combining ethos with pathos, which engages emotions, may enhance the persuasive argument.
Step-by-step explanation:
In encountering a situation where a cashier is wrongly accused of theft, one might engage various rhetorical strategies to persuade others of their innocence. Two such approaches might involve the use of ethos and pathos. Ethos refers to the establishment of one's credibility or character. The cashier could reference their past work record, shared values with the company, or third-party testimonies from co-workers to strengthen their credibility. On the other hand, pathos appeals to emotions. The cashier might express the personal distress and injustice they feel being falsely accused, thereby eliciting the empathy of the listener.
Between these two, ethos may be more effective in this scenario because it rests on tangible evidence of the cashier's trustworthiness and alignment with company values, which is more likely to resonate with a manager concerned about protecting the business. However, combining both strategies—in which personal narrative evokes empathy, while a reliable character is established—could provide an even more persuasive argument.
Ultimately, selecting the proper rhetorical approach depends on the audience. A manager may respond better to logical arguments and evidence (logos), while a colleague may be swayed by a narrative that stirs emotional solidarity (pathos).