Analysis of Michael Moor’s article “Idiot Nation” Essay Sample
Analysis of Michael Moor’s article “Idiot Nation” Essay Sample

Analysis of Michael Moor’s article “Idiot Nation” Essay Sample

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  • Pages: 3 (779 words)
  • Published: August 15, 2018
  • Type: Analysis
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In his piece titled "Idiot Nation," Michael Moore expresses his condemnation of the foolishness of Americans, specifically highlighting their lack of education, unawareness, and passiveness.

In his writing, Moore condemns politicians without qualifications and those who voted for them, while also revealing the corporate takeover of American schools. Despite the severity of his review, Moore still manages to connect with his readers by using ethos, emotion, and logic to encourage readers to recognize the inadequacies in America and become more involved.

Moore's first sentence in this article asks the question "Do you feel like you live in the state of imbeciles?" and establishes the qualities of good character and judgement. By posing this inquiry, Moore assumes that the reader is intelligent and well-read, thus excluding them from the class of imbeciles.

The article employs suggested warrants, letting the

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reader draw their own conclusions and demonstrating the writer's trust in their intelligence. This is evidenced by Moore's use of terms such as "sports", "friends", and "guys" despite any criticism. On page 124, Moore explicitly states his disdain for "writing these words" while expressing a love for the state and its eccentric inhabitants.

The author's intention is not merely to evoke negative feelings, such as shame, anger or disappointment, but rather to motivate and increase awareness of social problems in America. He hopes to inspire change. Moore concludes by offering his student readers a step-by-step manual titled "How to Be a Student Subversive Instead of a Student Subservient," demonstrating his desire for his audience to take proactive measures towards reform.

The situation in America is absurd and requires action. Michael Moore effectively connects with readers by utilizing emotional appeals

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and humor in his writing, as demonstrated on page 126 when he shares a humorous anecdote about an unsuccessful attempt to upgrade his travel class.

The text, containing , can beand unified as follows:

The phrase "well. inactiveness and fast nutrient finally proved her incorrect on that count" is amusing as it conjures up an image of Moore attempting to catch someone with fleshy muscles. Another sarcastic example is when Sally is told "No. Sally. the Soviet Union isn't our enemy."

The article by Moore is infused with irony, as seen when he questions the relevance of learning about Shakespeare in an English major and when he asks who needs to study history when one is studying to be a future master of the world. His ironic tone not only smoothens the rough edges of the article but also sheds light on the absurdity of the situation. In addition, Moore appeals to shame and dishonor, highlighting how the Soviet Union has been nonexistent for a decade.

The text argues that both children and those who pay their tuition are inadequately educated. It also calls out people who vote for electing unqualified politicians and prioritizing military spending over education. The author encourages readers to feel angry about these issues.

Page 130 of Moore's article discusses the state of American schools, where categories are "held in janitor's closet" and "teachers mop their own floors while students go without toilet paper." This evokes anger and feelings of betrayal among Moore's readers due to their personal experiences with school. In addition to his effective use of ethos and poignancy, Moore supports his statements with numerous examples, appealing strongly to logic.

On page 123,

Moore provides examples of politicians' ignorance despite their educational backgrounds and briefing documents. He also shares personal experiences with schools to highlight his point about their lack of knowledge.

A specific example of this can be found on pages 127-128 where Moore discusses his successful run for the school board and includes quotes from various individuals. One of these individuals is Chester Finn, who served as an assistant secretary of education during the administration of "Bush the Elder".

On page 131, the writer cites Jonathan Kozol, as well as references to media. Similarly, on page 129, there are multiple quotes from various newspapers and magazines exposing the treatment of instructors in America by Moore.

On pages 131-136, Moore uses statistics and facts to express his disapproval of the corporate takeover of American schools. One example is the statistic that "school plans and activities have seen corporate sponsorship addition by 248 percent". By providing evidence to support his arguments, Moore strengthens his article and also cites other individuals who share his views. Ultimately, "Idiot Nation" is a well-written piece that aims to expose the shortcomings of the United States and inspire change.

Moore's article may have a rough tone, but he still wins over the reader by effectively integrating wit and irony, establishing a strong moral character, and providing support for his statements.

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