Avatar Dragons

Hello everyone! Today, I want to discuss a powerful line from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address delivered in 1961. Having just won a closely contested election during the Cold War, Kennedy stepped into a divided nation struggling with complex issues, including conflicts such as Vietnam. The American people were looking for a leader who would take a firm stand against communism, and Kennedy sought to unite them in this shared struggle.

One striking line from his speech reads, “For man has the power, with mortal hands, to abolish all forms of poverty and all forms of human life.” In this sentence, Kennedy empowers his audience, highlighting the tremendous potential of humanity. He acknowledges the remarkable technological advancements of his time while also pointing to the grave responsibility that comes with them. It’s a poignant reminder that the same power that can be used to alleviate poverty also has the capacity to cause catastrophic destruction, particularly through nuclear weapons.

Technology is indeed a double-edged sword. Kennedy’s words evoke a sense of pride in what people can achieve as a nation, while simultaneously confronting the existential threat posed by our capabilities. By referring to “man” and “mankind,” Kennedy fosters a sense of unity, addressing his audience as one collective entity rather than separate groups. This choice of language resonates on a deeper emotional level, tapping into the idea that when discussing the betterment of humanity, one’s national identity often comes to the forefront.

In his message, Kennedy skillfully employs both pathos and logos. He evokes emotion by reminding listeners of the potential for both progress and destruction, while also establishing credibility through logical reasoning about humanity’s choices. While he exaggerates the idea of eradicating all poverty, the real focus is on the urgency of our collective responsibility.

Kennedy’s eloquence and insight make it a memorable address that resonates even today. I encourage you all to read or watch it if you haven’t already; it’s a powerful piece of history.

That’s all I have for now. Thanks for reading, and see you next time!