I have recently read two articles on security techniques that people can use while on Facebook. These two articles talk about the "super log-off" and "white walling" on Facebook. I found these two blogs on different websites but they are very similar indeed. They both reference the same person, Michael Ducker, who is a program manager at Microsoft. This reference appeals to logos since they are citing from professionals in the field. However, in the blog titled "Risk Reduction Strategies on Facebook" by Danah Boyd, she also references two other people, two Facebook users that practice these strategies. Boyd uses these direct quotations from the users and it demonstrates another usage of logos in her blog, making it more reliable to the reader. Another difference is the length and presentation of the blogs. Boyd presented a long narrative style blog while the author of "Privacy Tip: Try the super log-off" Rune Rasmussen uses a shorter list type blog. I believe that Rasmussen's style is more effective towards the intended audience, which are normally between the ages of 15-28, in presenting the information since of the simpler presentation. This is a great example of ethos since she uses a fair minded presentation for the intended audience with an appropriate level of vocabulary.
Boyd also uses pathos since she gives personal accounts of why the users of Facebook use these strategies. When she writes "Both of these girls live high-risk situations. Their lives aren't easy and they're just trying to have fun." These words evoke uneasy feelings since with the things that are put on Facebook they can get in trouble.
Both of these blogs are very effective in their own way in appealing to the reader's logic, emotions, and by making the writer more credible. They have their advantages and disadvantages over each other but since they are by different people, it is logical that they would. In the end, the message about being safe on Facebook and using the safety strategies is clear to all of those that read it.
The comparison of these two blogs was very interesting. The first blog was a better read, I think, having more vivid detail of personal accounts and the students reasoning behind their actions. It's not like it's just more random tips. But I agree that the second is appropriate for the audience. The second blog takes the practical information from the first blog and submits only that. It's a direct source for information, which is good for a grab-and-go kind of culture.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you and jenniferd that the second blog is more suitable for our fast pace online culture! Does everyone that uses these tips "live in high-risk situations?" For example do you think that everyone should take on these strategies?
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