Day: January 27, 2024

Introduction: “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

This article, “Why I Want Women to Lean In,” is an excerpt from Sheryl Sandberg’s acclaimed book, “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.” The article sheds light not only on women’s tendency to withdraw from work prematurely, societal bias against female success, but also on women’s own over-ambition to achieve perfection in every aspect of their lives. Sheryl Sandberg argues that despite women attaining top positions in academia, workplace equality remains elusive due to their internalized belief that they should prioritize family over work, existing prejudices in the workplace, and their perfectionist tendencies, leading them to allocate less time for family matters. According to Sandberg, despite women dominating the educational field, their representation in executive positions has not surpassed 14% in Fortune 500 and 17% in board seats over the last decade (472).

Drawing from her personal experience, Sandberg asserts that women are often compelled to choose between their careers and families. This dilemma is ingrained in them during their teenage years, where differential treatment between genders becomes second nature. Real obstacles emerge in the form of “sexism, discrimination, lack of flexibility, access to child care, and parental leave” (472), impeding women’s progression to executive roles. Sandberg proposes that if women resist leaving prematurely, if men cease biasing success and likability, and if women themselves let go of the pursuit of perfection but strive to their utmost, they can emerge as leaders in the business world. Employing classical rhetorical devices such as ethos, pathos, and logos, Sandberg persuades her readers that women can indeed succeed and become leaders in the business world.

Argument of “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

In establishing the credibility of her argument regarding the various obstacles faced by women, Sheryl Sandberg effectively employs ethos, drawing on her personal experiences as a woman, a professional, and a mother. Her initial use of ethos is evident in the opening paragraph, where she emphasizes that women “continue to outpace men in the educational field.” By positioning herself as a woman who has excelled in education, she underscores the disparity between educational achievements and the underrepresentation of women in the business world, asserting that obstacles hinder their progress (473).

Sandberg further reinforces her ethos by delving into her own career experiences. She contends that differential treatment between boys and girls during their teenage years shapes their future paths. Moreover, she addresses the stereotyping women face when they succeed, often being labeled as “outspoken, aggressive, more powerful than men,” which leads to discrimination in the workplace (473). By sharing her personal encounters with gender bias, Sandberg establishes herself not just as an author but as a working woman who has navigated these challenges firsthand.

Additionally, Sandberg leverages her professional affiliation by mentioning her role at Facebook. This serves to highlight her practical experience and success in a prominent company, emphasizing that she has pursued a path that aligns with her beliefs, achieving success while maintaining a balance between family and work. Her mantra, “done is better than perfect,” further reinforces her commitment to taking action rather than striving for perfection or succumbing to the pressure to do more (474).

By weaving together examples from her own life, observations, and career, Sandberg bolsters the credibility of her argument. Her relatable experiences and practical insights contribute to persuading her readers that sustainable and fulfilling work should be the focus, rather than an unattainable pursuit of perfection.

Strategy in “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

Sheryl Sandberg uses the rhetorical device of pathos to appeal to the emotions of her readers and persuade them of her argument that women are equal to men in both professional and domestic spheres. She touches upon the emotional experiences that resonate with women, highlighting the inequalities they face at the workplace, reminiscent of the challenges encountered during their teenage years. The emotional chord struck here revolves around the societal expectation that women must choose between a career and a family, with childcare and parental love often perceived as their primary responsibilities (473).

Sandberg addresses the emotional aspect of work-life balance by sharing her personal encounters. She notes that questions about family and work balance were directed at her when she joined Facebook, emphasizing the persistent societal expectation for women to navigate the delicate balance between career and family. Additionally, she points out that women tend to withdraw from responsibilities and job-related tasks when anticipating starting a family, leading to a significant lag behind their male counterparts. Returning to the workplace after childbirth, women may feel less fulfilled, underutilized, or unappreciated, which affects their enthusiasm for work and perpetuates the gap between men and women (473).

The emotional impact of Sandberg’s argument is heightened when she addresses the sacrifices women make for success. She contends that women pay a penalty for their achievements when they leave their families, portraying it as a significant sacrifice made to succeed in a male-dominated world. By appealing to the emotional experiences of women, Sandberg aims to rally support for her argument and foster a sense of solidarity among her readers.

Logos in “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

Sheryl Sandberg strategically employs the logical appeal, or logos, to substantiate her argument and persuade her readers, particularly women, that gender disparities persist due to factors such as family commitments, biases among men, and the perceived conflict between family and career. She incorporates credible sources, including studies and anecdotes from her own life, to present a logical foundation for her claims.

Sandberg references a Princeton survey from the 2006 class, revealing that 62% of women anticipated work/family conflict compared to 33% of men. This data emphasizes the challenges women face in deciding between a career and family life (472). Additionally, she highlights statistics related to the expectations of men regarding their wives’ employment status and the return rate of married working women. These figures underscore the significant decisions women must make when pursuing a career (472).

The second logical reference is drawn from a Harvard Business School case study, where two successful entrepreneurs are presented for analysis. The study’s outcome reveals that women entrepreneurs are perceived as selfish compared to their male counterparts, illustrating a bias that impacts women’s likability in professional settings (474). Sandberg supplements these references with personal anecdotes, including her experience joining Facebook, where she was questioned about family/work balance. She also shares a manager’s feedback on a woman customer service attendant being labeled “too aggressive,” highlighting the gender bias evident in workplace evaluations (474). Furthermore, Sandberg integrates additional statistics and data to reinforce her argument. For instance, she emphasizes that despite their professional responsibilities, most mothers spend almost equal time with their children. This data supports the notion that women can successfully manage both family and career if they strategically navigate the demands of both aspects of their lives (474). By combining credible sources, studies, and personal anecdotes, Sandberg strengthens the logical underpinning of her argument, aiming to convince her readers that women can overcome societal barriers and achieve success by effectively balancing family and career.

Conclusion: “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

In short, Sheryl Sandberg eloquently presents the challenges faced by working women in attaining executive positions compared to men in the business field and outlines how they can overcome these obstacles. Her communication is characterized by accessible and relevant language, making her message easily understandable. Beyond sharing her own experiences, Sandberg effectively employs classical rhetorical devices—ethos, pathos, and logos—to strengthen her argument. She draws on various sources to convince readers that women’s underrepresentation in top-level positions is a result of both natural and societal impediments, including the conflict between life and career, men’s biases, and women’s inherent dedication to their families.

While Sandberg acknowledges her own preference for family, she argues that women can strike a balance between work and family life with determination. Success, according to her, requires strong decision-making skills, resilience, and, most importantly, the will to succeed. By advocating for women to seize opportunities, overcome biases, and relinquish the pursuit of perfection, she asserts that they can emerge as leaders equal to their male counterparts.

Works Cited: “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

1. Sandberg, Sheryl. “Why I Want Women To Lean In.” Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, 7 Mar. 2013, ideas.time.com/2013/03/07/why-i-want-women-to-lean-in/.

Relevant Questions: “Why I Want Women to be Lean In”

1. How does Sheryl Sandberg argue for the importance of women leaning in, and what key insights does she provide regarding women, work, and leadership in “Why I Want Women To Lean In”?
2. In the context of “Why I Want Women To Lean In,” what are some of the challenges that women may face in the workplace, and how does Sheryl Sandberg suggest they can overcome these challenges through leaning in?
3. How does Sheryl Sandberg address the concept of leadership in the context of women leaning in, and what role does she believe women should play in driving their own professional success and advancement according to “Why I Want Women To Lean In”?

Introduction: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

In her essay “The Importance of Work,” Betty Friedan defines work done for earnings and its importance in recognizing identity among men, as well as the identity crisis faced by women due to the lack of outside work. This article is part of her book “The Feminine Mystique,” in which she discusses the dissatisfaction experienced by American women of that time, trapped by domestic chores and losing their identity. The book was published in 1963, a period when American women were advocating for equal rights to establish their identity. Friedan made it clear that feminine ideals limited women’s freedom and growth, contrasting it with the potential that work could offer. In this essay, she not only defines work but also explores the identity that comes with it, using a combination of definition and inductive argument methods to persuade her women audience. Employing classical techniques such as kairos, ethos, and pathos, coupled with an inductive leap, she argues that work done for survival defines a person’s identity and emphasizes how women have confined themselves and their feminine ideals to domestic chores, akin to concentration camps without identity.

In 1963, the year of the book’s publication in the United States, women were participating in various activities, sports, and work. Despite this, societal expectations still encouraged them to stay at home and focus on domestic chores. Betty Friedan argues that, as times change, work becomes not only a means to earn but also a way to define one’s identity. Therefore, by limiting themselves to their homes, women lose their identity. The argument was relevant at that time, and the writer effectively uses the classical technique of kairos, addressing the dissatisfaction of women during that era.

Writer and Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

Friedan established herself as a feminist during that time, serving as a writer, female activist, and the president of the National Organization for Women. She actively worked to bring women into the national mainstream and advocated for their equality with men in all fields. With such a background, she has already gained credibility as someone who believes in women’s capabilities and advocates for their rights. Therefore, when she asserts that “the same range of potential ability exists for women as for men,” it stems from her realization that women can work on an equal footing with men (Friedan 794). Due to the denial of opportunities, women fail to find proper expression for their identities, leading to an identity crisis. Her strong background lends weight to her arguments. Additionally, she supports her claims by citing the research of renowned figures such as Erik Erikson, a great researcher, and William James, a psychologist, further reinforcing the validity of her arguments.

Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

Moreover, Friedan effectively employs pathos to resonate with her female audience. She argues that, just as work defines identity and therapists recommend engaging in meaningful work for spiritual healing, women are denied the opportunity to choose work they love and define their own personalities. She suggests that if women don’t pursue work they are passionate about, they will exist in a “parasitic state,” experiencing weakened muscles and minds (795). Friedan touches on the emotional aspect by highlighting that women cannot solely derive their identities from their children and that true awareness of their identities often occurs when facing death or being near death. Urging women to take life seriously, she appeals to their emotions and seeks to connect with them on a personal level.

Furthermore, Friedan employs inductive reasoning in her essay. She establishes the central claim that work is crucial for identity, and from this, she deduces that women, lacking the freedom to choose the work they love, suffer from an identity crisis. By presenting specific examples and anecdotes, she builds a case that resonates with her audience. Additionally, she makes allusions to influential philosophers such as Marx and Freud (794), drawing on historical references to support her points. Friedan also employs rhetorical questions, providing answers to strengthen her argument further.

Conclusion: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

In short, Betty Friedan employs inductive reasoning effectively in this definition essay. She begins by defining the topic and then adds another layer, asserting that work not only defines identity but has evolved into a fundamental element of personality in the modern age. Friedan strategically incorporates classical rhetorical devices such as pathos, logos, and kairos to persuade her audience. She argues that despite the advanced thinking of American women, they are falling behind their Western counterparts. Through these rhetorical devices, Friedan encourages her audience to move “beyond the narrow walls of home, to help shape the future” (796). According to her, this is the only way for women to become distinct individuals and forge their own identities.

Works Cited: Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

1. Friedan, Betty. “The Importance of Work.” Ed. Kirszner, Laurie G. & Stephen R. Mandell. Practical Argument.  Bedford / St. Martin’s/ New York. 2010. Print. 794-796.

Relevant Questions about Rhetorical Analysis of “The Importance of Work”

1. How does Betty Friedan utilize rhetorical strategies, such as ethos, logos, and pathos, to convey her perspective on “The Importance of Work”?
2. In what ways does Friedan support her argument about the significance of work, and how does she appeal to the emotions and reasoning of her audience?
3. How does the historical context and Friedan’s personal experiences contribute to the overall effectiveness of her argument in “The Importance of Work”?

Introduction: Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

Technology is transforming human lives by revolutionizing how we communicate, work, and access information, reshaping the very fabric of our daily existence. The issue of the intervention of modern technology and betterment of human lives and habitat are now looming large over the horizon in this postmodern age. In their articles, Emily Badger and Molly Flatt have not only discussed the technological evolution from natural surroundings but has also shed some light on the use of technology to solve urban planning problems, leading the envisioning “smart cities” (Badger).

Technology Is Transforming Human Lives  in Badger

In her article, “Tech Envisions the Ultimate Start-Up: An Entire City,” Emily Badger has argued that despite the revolution of digitization and digital products, San Francisco and other cities like it are witnessing traffic, homelessness and inequality income issues. Several technological experts are trying to resolve these issues with new ideas by designing new urban centers but the problem is the American way of constructing cities. She quotes an expert Mr. Huh who envisions new smart cities which could be “reinvention” of the old cities sans old rules like that the arrival of Uber in taxi cab service (Badger). She quotes another expert to bring home her audience that new smart cities will based on internet usage benefitting non-residents. The thesis of her article is that new thinking approach based on internet of thinking about urban planning and smart cities is going to become a future. However, it is another thing that technology and nature seldom seems to coalesce.

Technology Is Transforming Human Lives in Flatt

On the other hand, Molly Flatt shown this side of the argument in her article “Nature and Technology: Friends or Enemies?” in which she has presented her point that by the way human beings are preoccupied in suing tech gadgets, it seems that “we are always part of technology” (Flatt). Her main argument is that human beings have always innovated to meet their needs in this hostile world. However, this innovation has come from mimicking the natural objects. Therefore, technology can help in sustainability and conservation projects. Therefore, it is but natural that technology impacts human beings and their lives and in turn forces human beings to innovate new gadgets to make life easy and comfortable. Both her articles not only support the idea of technical innovation for the betterment of humanity but also shows human ingenuity to learn from the nature. Therefore, she argues technology can improve human lives as well as habitat.

Badger’s Argument and How Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

In order to prove her claim of technical innovation for betterment, Emily Badger has argued her position about the visionary thinking of the technological experts using as logos. In her articles, she has supported her claim of smart and modern cities by presenting ideas of Ben Huh, a technical expert as a strong logo who has also launched a company Y Combinator. She then uses comparison and contrast strategy of American urban planning and its flaws vis-à-vis Croatian cities to bring home her audience about the importance of environment and home urban planning. This is a very good use of kairos, for now is the perfect time to “reinvent” urban planning (Badger). In order to make it more convincing, she also uses opinions of economists and home buyers to prove that technological is going to impact not only urban planning but also home construction with the use of matching diction and style.

Badger’s Language and How Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

Emily Badger has used diction that is appropriate to the modern style incorporating technical jargons mingled neatly with rhetorical devices. The use of optimization, fantasizing, hubris, conflict, chips, hyperloop and utopia shows a good integration of literary diction with that of the modern technical jargons. This intermarriage of literary language with technical jargons have given birth to neologisms such as “NIMBYism” to show improvement in language for construction (Badger). Her use of metaphors such as of “tabula rasa”, simile of iPhone and compound wording such as “city-building, odd-sounding” and rhetorical questions have further adding to the effectiveness of her argument (Badger). The same is the case with the other article.

In “Nature and Technology: Friends and Enemies?” Molly Flatt has beautifully used, logos and pathos along with kairos. The use of ethos is clear from the sources such as Oxford Junior Dictionary, Christopher Potter, a philosopher, MySpace, a social networking site, Dr. Joppa, a scientist and several other companies to show that nature indeed helps improve technology and vice versa. She has used pathos of technology helping human beings to save lives and kairos by stating that technology is integrating into life of human beings very fast. This argument is quite topical and modern according to the time. However, the most effective point is the use of suitable diction, figurative language and rhetorical questions.

Molly Flatt has used metaphors at different places to show this intermarriage of technology with human lives. For example, she states that language is also “bridging the difference” (Flatt). She has used several suitable words that have entered everyday language such as “e-waste, broadband, analogue and cut and paste” (“Nature and Technology”). Moreover, she has also used rhetorical questions at different places to maker her readers believe that technology is indeed being molded by nature and nature by technology. In both of her articles, she has argued that technology is making human lives better through evolution in collaboration with nature and evolving situation.

On the other hand, Emily Badger has rightly argued in “Tech Envisions” through different opinions that mart cities are the need of the hour and that the Internet revolution is going to transform the way human being live. Her theory of better habitats and better places through the use of internet is convincing despite having a strong argument against it within it that utopias seldom succeed. At the same time, I do agree with her that these are the need of the hour and the future cities could benefit non-residents too. However, what I do not see is that she has not talked about the solid waste management, water supply and internet disruption issues in those modern cities. These problems would accompany but then they could be solved with the passage of time, for every solution comes with the problem and not before it.

In the same way, her argument in “Nature and Technology” is very good and convincing that technology is helping but it is not that every technical piece has evolved from mimicking nature. The examples given by her are just few. There are thousands of things which have come from the need of the hour rather than the imitation of nature. Moreover, she has also put forward the idea that technology is helping in conservation and preservation of environment, but at the same time, she has forgot that technology is playing havoc with the endangered species by helping hunters track them and hunt them down or by degrading environment through the production of more tech waste. I do, however, agree with her that nature helps us in many ways to make see that it sometimes is like technology but it actually is not the case.

Conclusion: Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

To Cut it short, both Emily Badger and Molly Flatt have beautifully presented their arguments in both articles “Nature and Technology” and “Tech Envisions” that technology is here to help human beings to improve their lives as well as habitat. Technology though seems a re-invention of the natural objects sometimes is more ingenious use of available and not-available objects prepared for immediate requirements. The common argument that technology is helping and could help human being build better cities and improve environment holds weight but at the same time both have not given much attention to several other problems that originate from the use of technology such as health and environmental pollution. Moreover, they have also not discussed the issue of energy supplied to technical objects and resultant issues. Besides this, the articles have very powerful supporting details of tech experts, their quotes and other examples. The language is also very good and suitable with good use of rhetorical and literary devices. The argument, though have some room for improvement is powerful and convincing.

Works Cited: Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

1. Badger, Emily. ” Tech Vision the Ultimate Start-Up: An Entire City.” The New York Times. 24 Feb. 2018. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/…/tech-envisions-the-ultimate-start-up-an-entire-city.html. Accessed 18 March. 2023.
2. Flat, Molly. “Nature and Technology: Friends or Enemies.” BBC. 16 Jul. 2015. www.bbc.com/earth/story/20150703-can-nature-and-technology-be-friends. Accessed 18 Mar. 2023.

Relevant Questions about Technology Is Transforming Human Lives

1. How does the article “Tech Vision: The Ultimate Start-Up: An Entire City” by Emily Badger explore the concept of an entire city functioning as a tech start-up, and what potential impacts on human lives and urban living are discussed in the article?
2. In Molly Flat’s article “Nature and Technology: Friends or Enemies,” how is the relationship between nature and technology examined, and what perspectives are presented on how these two forces can coexist harmoniously or be at odds?
3. Considering both articles, how do they collectively contribute to the broader understanding of how technology is shaping the human experience, whether through city-scale innovations or in the dynamic interplay between nature and technological advancements?