Article Analysis
This Page will consist of analysis of various forms of media from Salon.
In this article Masciotra makes a strong argument that questioned the philosophy of universities that continue to foster athletic programs, knowing that these programs are a financial burden to these schools. The author opens with an anecdote that addresses the identifies the problem at hand, "A majority of American Universities accrue no financial benefit from athletics," and, "schools can barely keep up with the increasing costs," which creates an "economic burden of bone crushing weight." The author description of the financial burden placed upon schools by athletic programs leads me to believe that he has a personal connection or vendetta against athletic programs. Masciotra describes the financial burden created by athletic programs as "bone crushing" which may indicate some sort of emotional attachment toward the topic. Masciotra appeals to ethos by citing the writings of a professor from Indiana University, who wrote that big time college sports are crippling undergraduate education. He appeals to logos by citing that students in 2014 paid $114 million in required fees that supported athletic programs. He uses this statement to draw readers' attention to the fact that so much money that is suppose to help with students' education actually assists in "the enhancement of backyard games that are not even financially viable." The author tries to pit readers against college athletic programs by making it seem like they are preying on financially challenged college students, an appeal to pathos. The author's clear purpose is to illustrate how athletic programs seem to be taking away from the true purpose of college, education for the students. Reading this piece gave me a new perspective on the allocation of funds in American universities. The author did a good job in making readers aware of how universities seem to prioritizing athletics over students' education. Masciotra also thoroughly addresses the counterargument that many bring up. Many claim that athletics bring in the most money for the school, but by counter arguing that the money they make does not equal the money they take,
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