The Danger Of A Single Story Analysis

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Voltaire posits tolerance is the consequence of humanity and that we must accept each other for our differences. This enlightenment focuses on human compassion and understanding in all cultures to live harmoniously, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s artistry in TED Talks “The Danger of a Single Story” is reflective of the importance of discarding cultural assumptions. The ability to see the nuances of anything challenging, interesting, or even mundane in life allows one to broaden their horizons regardless of stereotypes and false assumptions. Adichie’s “single story” narrative provides contextual support of how people often misjudge or misinterpret others who have not had the same life experiences. Adichie gains the reader’s attention through…show more content…
Adichie’s message is heartfelt. The infusion of passion and empathy are clear indicators of the use of pathos (compassion not pity). One clear expression of such emotional impact is seen when she discusses the consequences of the single story. She posits that it “robs people of dignity, makes our recognition of our equal humanity difficult, and “emphasizes how we are different rather than how we are similar” (Adichie, 14:04). She embodies the conundrum and the narrative she presents alludes to experiences that we can empathize with through a logical and characteristic breadth of mutual understanding. The pathos within her discussion continues with the concept of how writing is used to dispossess and to malign” yet there are stories that are written to “empower and to humanize” (Adichie, 17:44). These terms are powerful in and of themselves. Her focus on dignity of each human being is clearly received, thus confirming her emotional appeals through logic and heart. She is credible, authentic, and concerned. She presents her argument in ways that make sense with compassion and zest that show viewer (audience) the truth behind what she is…show more content…
We all share in determining others based on low information. The single story defined by Adichie is a dangerous place to keep your mind. Without an open-mind, a compassionate heart, and a desire for expanding one’s horizons, the single story missed out on the elevator taking us to a observatory to explore the incredible views. Through metaphoric repetition, injected with the emotional appeal of pathos, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie drives her message of cultural awareness and sensitivity as critical to harmonious relationships and a deeper understanding the complexities of each person. The TED Talks featuring the book “The Danger of a Single Story,” arguably persuades most viewers, and moreover, engenders genuine reflection. We have all been subject to either assuming a “single story” or being the subject of one. Her narrative is supported by a multitude of her own experiences of exactly this phenomenon. As someone with a uniquely complex story, assumptions of my being are vastly misguided. A person who immigrated from Africa who is not black and is a US citizen should be considered African-American, but this is not the case. Further evidence of Adichie’s argument. She is a black woman from Africa who speaks English, is highly educated, and likes Mariah Carey. She is a prolific writer in her own right and

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