In this article Jeremy Kahn examines the concept of snitching and witness intimidation. To do this Kahn introduces a story pertaining to witness intimidation and follows what happened to John Dowery Jr., the witness, after he came forward to testify. As the story progresses Kahn also discusses how the term snitching has changed and developed, what effect witness intimidation has on a case, and the effects both of these terms have in a community.
To develop the argument Kahn utilizes ethos and pathos. He creates a strong ethos by providing quotes from police officers, civilians in dangerous neighborhoods, and people who have expressed a dislike for snitchers. These testimonies provide proof of the issue and add insight into why the problem exists. Another way the author develops ethos is by providing us with ways to reduce witness intimidation and lessen the bad reputation of snitching. To appeal to pathos Kahn provided us with the account of what Dowery went through. Kahn also provided other horror stories of witness intimidation, which developed a feeling of remorse for those attacked and anger at the people who were threatening the “snitches.” These real life events illicit an emotional response from the reader and thus create a strong pathos.
This paper Kahn wrote was directed not only at people who live in communities where snitching is considered a taboo but also to society at large. In his article, Kahn focused on how the term snitch had evolved to encompass a much wider range. He noted how rap music and modern television shows were now showing snitching as bad and as a result there was a drop in the amount of police cooperation.
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