Free Information

With the growing popularity of the concept of “free information,” boundaries are being set- or in some cases, ignored- all across the country. “Free information” refers to the idea that all information, from academic research to government records, should be shared.. D-Lib, an online magazine, recently published an article discussing the negative effects of an argument like this. In order to elaborate this point, the author, Richard T. Kaser, often uses rhetorical devices. He opens the article with a strong ethos- explaining the sources he has used to make him more of an authority on the subject. This illustrates his willingness to not only show his character and authority as a writer, but willingness to show credit where it is due. Throughout the article, he sprinkles in dabs of pathos, with a dash of humor regarding his dog, Fido. Humor, as well as general emotions in an article, is appealing to an audience, and works especially well here. Lastly, Kaser’s use of logos is the most masterful of all: he explains what he believes in an easy and step-by-step fashion. This helps his audience better understand the topic, and more importantly, allows them to side with him by the end of the article.

After more intense browsing, I found a website that invites people to share any information they have about any topic. Freeinfosociety.com had a host of different ideas and different kinds of information, about everything from Stephen Hawking to John Wayne. I was surprised to see that unlike other sites edited by the users, the authors of the site were voraciously enthusiastic about their topics. Through their biographies and studies of all kinds, I noticed their rhetorical devices as well- they demanded to be listened to (ethos) and they were logical in their approach (logos).

In case you’re interested, here are the sites. See for yourself what all the fuss is about- and see if you agree information doesn't come with a cost. 

http://www.dlib.org/dlib/may00/kaser/05kaser.html

http://www.freeinfosociety.com/article_index.php