King says, "But as I continued to think about the matter, I gradually gained a bit of satisfaction from being considered an extremist." Which rhetorical strategy does King employ with this statement?

Question

tone
ethos
logos
pathos

Answer 1

In this statement, Martin Luther King Jr. employs ethos as his rhetorical strategy. By reflecting on his feelings and gaining satisfaction from being labeled an extremist, he is establishing his credibility and moral stance on the issues he is advocating for. He is confronting the negative connotations of the term "extremist" and positioning himself as someone who is committed to justice and equality, thus appealing to the audience's perception of his character and values.