Pothos and Pathos are terms that sound alike but refer to entirely different concepts. This article clarifies their origins, meanings, and specific contexts.
Pothos The Plant
The Pothos plant, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is a widely recognized and popular houseplant cultivated globally. Its common names also include “devil’s ivy,” reflecting its tenacious growth and ability to thrive in various conditions, even low light. This tropical vine is admired for its heart-shaped, often variegated foliage, which can display shades of green, yellow, and white.
Pothos is favored by both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts due to its ease of care, tolerating neglect and adapting to different indoor environments. Its trailing or climbing habit makes it versatile for hanging baskets, shelves, or as a climbing plant with support. The plant is also recognized for its decorative appeal and its reported ability to filter common indoor air pollutants.
Pathos The Rhetorical Device
Pathos is a rhetorical device that refers to an appeal to emotion, serving as one of the three modes of persuasion in communication. This concept originated in ancient Greek rhetoric and was notably identified and analyzed by the philosopher Aristotle in his work “Rhetoric.” He described pathos as a method by which an orator or writer attempts to evoke an emotional response in their audience, thereby influencing their judgment or opinion.
The effective use of pathos involves understanding the audience’s values, beliefs, and experiences to craft messages that resonate emotionally. Speakers might use vivid storytelling, personal anecdotes, or emotionally charged language to elicit feelings such as sympathy, anger, joy, or fear. For instance, advertisements often employ pathos by showcasing heartwarming scenes or distressing situations to connect with consumers on a deeper, emotional level and prompt a desired action.
Distinguishing Between Pothos and Pathos
Pothos is a specific plant species, a tangible biological entity rooted in horticulture and botany. Pathos is an abstract concept from classical rhetoric and philosophy, describing a persuasive technique to influence human emotion. The fundamental difference lies in their very nature: one is a tangible, biological entity, while the other is an intangible, conceptual tool for persuasion. To help distinguish them, remember that “Pothos” (with an ‘o’) is a common “pot” plant, easily grown indoors. “Pathos” (with an ‘a’) relates to “a”ffecting emotions, a technique used in speech and writing.