Analyzing Persuasion Techniques

Analyzing Persuasion Techniques and Rhetorical Devices in "Why Recycling Doesn’t Work" by
Matthew Halliday
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Analyzing "Why Recycling Doesn’t Work" by Matthew Halliday
Introduction
The article titled "Why Recycling Doesn’t Work" by Matthew Halliday, originally published in
The Walrus in August 2018, presents a critical examination of the commonly held belief that
recycling is a comprehensive solution to environmental problems. We will examine the
persuasive strategies and rhetorical devices used by the author to refute the widely held belief
that recycling is the best solution for environmental sustainability through a thorough review of
this thought-provoking piece. In this essay, we examine the author's rhetorical devices, the
coherence of his argument, his tone, the facts and evidence he provides, his use of references and
sources, his analysis of the source material, and the article's overall tone. We want to get a clearer
knowledge of the critical discourse around recycling and its actual role in tackling today's
environmental concerns by analyzing the author's work in these crucial areas ("Why recycling
doesn’t work," 2020).
Author's Rhetorical Appeal
Throughout his article, "Why Recycling Doesn't Work," Matthew Halliday exhibits an
impressive knowledge of persuasive strategies. The way he crafts his message to appeal to a
diverse audience demonstrates his skillful use of rhetorical techniques. He achieves accessibility
by using vivid descriptions and relevant examples that help readers from all backgrounds relate
to the subject matter. With this strategy, he may bridge the knowledge gap between individuals
who are knowledgeable about environmental issues and those who may not be as knowledgeable
("Why recycling doesn’t work," 2020).
A crucial aspect of Halliday's persuasion, in addition to accessibility, is the language he uses.
Because of his writing's clarity and accuracy, his point is presented in an understandable and
persuasive way. By using precise language, he avoids any potential misunderstanding and makes
it simple for readers to understand his arguments. It's a tactic that strengthens the argument's
persuasiveness by removing needless barriers to understanding.
Identifying the Author's Purpose
The main goal of Matthew Halliday's paper, "Why Recycling Doesn't Work," is to challenge the
widely held and frequently naïve belief that recycling is the best solution for environmental
problems. Given the mounting environmental problems our planet is facing, Halliday argues that
recycling is no longer sufficient as a panacea. His main goal is to make readers aware of the
recycling's inherent limitations in dealing with these complicated situations. He exhorts them to
adopt a more critical viewpoint and think about all-encompassing approaches to environmental
conservation. The piece essentially acts as a rallying cry for increased consciousness and a
general reevaluation of the part recycling plays in our larger environmental efforts. It challenges
readers to reevaluate their presumptions and contemplate different paths to a future that is more
environmentally conscious and sustainable (SALEH et al., 2021).
Evaluation of Evidence and Facts
A convincing array of data and information gleaned from many sources is used by the author to
support his claims. He supports his claim with references to actual instances of recycling
procedures and the expenditures involved. Furthermore, he reinforces the validity of his
statements by including citations to research and statistics on the environmental impact of
recycling. His case is strengthened by the use of these details and pieces of data, which also
persuade the reader that recycling has to be seen from a more critical angle.
Use of References and Sources
Matthew Halliday skillfully supports his views with citations to reliable authorities and
specialists, such as environmental scientists and business leaders. These references support his
claim and show that he is actively participating in the established discourse on recycling and
environmental issues. By including these references, Halliday highlights the significance of the
topic and offers a comprehensive viewpoint on it areas ("Why recycling doesn’t work," 2020).
Analysis of Source Material
Halliday analyses the original material with meticulousness and wisdom. He expertly analyses
recycling's procedures and effects, giving readers a thorough understanding of how it actually
affects the environment. His thorough analysis of the primary sources gives readers a
sophisticated understanding of the complexity involved in recycling processes (SALEH et al.,
2021). His position is supported by this thorough analysis, which also helps readers understand
the complexity of the recycling problem.
Personal Opinion and Tone
Halliday keeps an informed and impartial voice the entire time. He refrains from adding personal
commentary that would sway the investigation's impartiality. With no excessively subjective
impact, this impartial tone provides a platform for informing readers about the reality of
recycling. Halliday makes sure that his message is unemotionally biased and both clear and
persuasive by maintaining this tone (SALEH et al., 2021).
Determining the Tone of the Article
The article's tone leans heavily on analysis and information. The main goal of Halliday's writing
is to inform readers about the limitations of recycling as a long-term solution to environmental

problems. His message must come over clearly, and he must inspire readers to think critically
about recycling's place in more general environmental conservation efforts. Readers are better
able to understand the author's thesis and the depth of his study thanks to the analytical tone.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew Halliday's article successfully refutes the generally held notion that
recycling is beneficial through the use of persuasive strategies and rhetorical tactics. Halliday
challenges readers to reevaluate their views on recycling and examine more thorough methods of
environmental conservation through a critical review of the data, sources, and tone. Readers can
acquire insightful understanding into the larger discussion on recycling and environmental
sustainability by carefully scrutinizing the author's ideas and techniques. The article "Why
Recycling Doesn't Work" is a vital call to action for readers to evaluate recycling critically in the
context of current environmental challenges.

References
Rhetorical analysis sample essay. (n.d.). STLCC. https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-
success-and-tutoring/writing-center/writing-resources/rhetorical-analysis-sample-
essay.aspx
SALEH, N. F., ROOZENBEEK, J., MAKKI, F. A., MCCLANAHAN, W. P., & VAN DER
LINDEN, S. (2021). Active inoculation boosts attitudinal resistance against extremist
persuasion techniques: A novel approach towards the prevention of violent extremism.
Behavioural Public Policy, 1-24. https://doi.org/10.1017/bpp.2020.60
Why recycling doesn’t work. (2020, March 31). The Walrus. https://thewalrus.ca/why-recycling-
doesnt-work/

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Analyzing Persuasion Techniques and Rhetorical Devices in "Why Recycling Doesn’t Work" by

recycling is a comprehensive solution to environmental problems. We will examine the

doesn’t work," 2020).

Author's Rhetorical Appeal

("Why recycling doesn’t work," 2020).

A crucial aspect of Halliday's persuasion, in addition to accessibility, is the language he uses.

persuasiveness by removing needless barriers to understanding.

Identifying the Author's Purpose

environmentally conscious and sustainable (SALEH et al., 2021).

Evaluation of Evidence and Facts

statements by including citations to research and statistics on the environmental impact of

Analysis of Source Material

sophisticated understanding of the complexity involved in recycling processes (SALEH et al.,

the complexity of the recycling problem.

Personal Opinion and Tone

persuasive by maintaining this tone (SALEH et al., 2021).

Determining the Tone of the Article

is to inform readers about the limitations of recycling as a long-term solution to environmental

context of current environmental challenges.

Rhetorical analysis sample essay. (n.d.). STLCC. https://stlcc.edu/student-support/academic-

LINDEN, S. (2021). Active inoculation boosts attitudinal resistance against extremist

persuasion techniques: A novel approach towards the prevention of violent extremism.

Behavioural Public Policy, 1-24. https://doi.org/10.1017/bpp.2020.60

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