Perspectives on "Illegal Aliens"

I have chosen to analyze the argument by Marcos Brenton entitled “Behind the ‘Illegal Alien’ Label, Real Kids with a lot to Contribute,” from the “Perspectives on Globalization” reader. This is an argument about the effects of immigration in our society, and how our view of immigrants is stereotypical. He discusses the label that has been placed on “illegal aliens,” and illustrates the need for our policies and our mindsets change in this department. He does so largely through the use of examples and explanation about the opportunities that many immigrants are missing out on because this is such a sensitive issue that many Americans don’t know how to remedy. Some of the other elements included in his article are imagery, alliteration, understatement, and tone. Overall, his language is calculated to be edgy, but it is also informative and compelling. His imagery and powerful examples make it engaging. One example of this includes when he says, “the very term ‘illegal alien’ is like blood dumped in shark-infested waters. It triggers fuming reactions in the absence of understanding that not all ‘illegals’ are alike” (28). Though it is a fun experience to read it, there is enough academic material that Brenton builds his credibility, and he also establishes ethos with the reader by citing evidence for his point. I think his argument is effective because he addresses this weighty topic with a lighter tone, but he also draws attention to the need for change in a way that is engaging and intelligent. You can tell that he knows his topic well, and that he feels like it is time for people to understand this issue in a new way. The logos of his argument is most likely appealing to those Americans who may be undecided about their position on immigration, or even those who think they are decided, but may change their minds. He seems to take a rational position on the subject, which allows the reader to feel safe in seeing his argument for what it is, and reading it all the way through. Brenton also appeals to his audience’s emotion (or pathos) by giving specific anecdotal examples of those “illegal aliens” who have a lot to contribute to our society, but may be unable to because of the policies and laws against them. This is probably one of his strongest arguments for his point, because people can identify better with individual examples of people with struggles, seeing as we all have our own unique struggles. Overall, Brenton’s argument is effective due to his intentional and well-done use of figurative language, and his establishment of ethos, pathos, and logos.