Final answer:
Ethos is a rhetorical strategy used to establish the author's or speaker's credibility and trustworthiness by appealing to their ethical character, qualifications, and by using fair and neutral language.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ethos is a crucial concept in rhetoric that refers to the ethic persuasion. It serves as a strategy to establish the author's or speaker's credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of their audience. When a writer or speaker employs ethos, they are making an appeal to their ethical and moral character, showcasing their qualifications, and invoking the trust that the audience has in them.
For example, an author may emphasize their years of research or their professional experience to build ethos. A speaker may reference endorsements from respected figures or institutions to strengthen their appeal. The use of fair, neutral language and presenting information in a balanced and honest way are also indicative of a strong ethos. This helps convince the audience that the author or speaker is a reliable and ethical expert on the subject matter.