Response to “A Call to Arms”

In “A Call to Arms,” McKibben passionately rallies people to his side in combatting climate change. He makes his readers want to help the cause in saving the world, suggesting that if they do not they are “sitting ducks.” Using a great amount of pathos, McKibben is able to sway his audience’s opinion. He proves to his audience that they can make a difference by referencing the impact college students have had already. Although this is for a good cause, this is still propaganda and we cannot take this as gospel. We must also think for ourselves in reading this. The Miriam Webster Dictionary defines propaganda as “ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further one’s cause or to damage an opposing cause.” And doesn’t the article do just that? The audience is now more inspired to take action, in thinking that not doing anything is wrongful. We must do our own research before we agree with this author wholeheartedly. We must research more about this march, in what exactly it attempts to accomplish. If, after our research we find ourselves in agreement with McKibben, we must keep ourselves updated on the war on climate change and find more ways to help the cause. I agree that we must work to heal the environment but I am cautious when reading fanatical articles such as the likes of this one.