Using the Classical Rhetorical Concept of “Ethos” to Solve Online Collaboration Problems of Trust and Presence

Abstract

This chapter shows how ethos continues to play an important role in contemporary online collaboration and can be applied as a methodology to those leading or even engaging in such collaborative projects. First articulated by Aristotle as a combination of the traits of phronesis (practical wisdom), aretae (virtuous character), and eunoia (goodwill), the concept of ethos is a central aspect of public communication. This chapter discusses how applying this classical concept to one's online communication in collaborative projects can solve the difficulties of presence and trust. Furthermore, the concept when applied to electronic communication goes a long way toward establishing an e-ethic. In order to accomplish this, this chapter specifically looks at the application Slack. Slack is an online collaborative tool that is built on top of the IRC framework. This chapter takes the concept of ethos and shows how it can be practically integrated into Slack communication.