Work can be
extremely stressful and challenging, especially when it involves maintaining
two or more jobs in order to sustain the lives of a growing family. According
to a recent study conducted by researchers at Stanford and Harvard, work reduces
life expectancy. This tragic result originates from the educational achievement
of an individual, “because the lower someone’s level of education, the greater
the exposure to work-related stress from unemployment, layoffs, job insecurity,
and lack of health insurance” (par 2). Although longevity varies depending on
gender, race, and background, this study calculated that between a “10 to 38
percent difference in life expectancy across demographic groups can be
explained by differing levels of stress on the job” (5). This is a growing and startling statistic for all
American citizens, both employed and unemployed alike.
Teresa Tritch, a New York Times editor and blogger, believes that in order to rid of this threatening outcome, several necessary measures must be taken. These include the establishment of a higher minimum wage, fair and even scheduling laws, and healthier workplaces. Through the usage of two different rhetorical devices in the form of questions, Tritch accomplishes her purpose of announcing that more action must be taken against the rising level of stress among workers in order for them to maintain long and prosperous lives. Starting her essay off with hypophora, she addresses American citizens by asking them several questions and posing possible scenarios. For example she writes, “What if work-related stress is chronic, as is the case for working parents whose employers do not offer regular schedules, sick days or other company benefits?” (1). Shortly following, she addresses this question by explaining the effects that work stress has on life spans, and the many contributing factors to this issue. Then, with a rhetorical question, Tritch concludes her essay by proposing one final thought to the audience. “A more important question is how many people will die too soon before policymakers take corrective action?” (7).
Both the usage of hypophora and rhetorical questions allow for Tritch to interact with her audience, and give them the opportunity to consider what a large number of citizens experience on a daily basis. She also raises alarm within the country, by forcing people to wonder just how many more deaths will occur until the government finally takes notice. This is her way of spreading the alarming news to the public, because the only way a change will occur is if large amounts of people know and speak up about it.
Tritch, Teresa. "Stressful Workplaces, Shorter Lives." Taking Note Stressful Workplaces Shorter Lives Comments. New York Times, 22 Oct. 2015. Web. 25 Oct. 2015.
Teresa Tritch, a New York Times editor and blogger, believes that in order to rid of this threatening outcome, several necessary measures must be taken. These include the establishment of a higher minimum wage, fair and even scheduling laws, and healthier workplaces. Through the usage of two different rhetorical devices in the form of questions, Tritch accomplishes her purpose of announcing that more action must be taken against the rising level of stress among workers in order for them to maintain long and prosperous lives. Starting her essay off with hypophora, she addresses American citizens by asking them several questions and posing possible scenarios. For example she writes, “What if work-related stress is chronic, as is the case for working parents whose employers do not offer regular schedules, sick days or other company benefits?” (1). Shortly following, she addresses this question by explaining the effects that work stress has on life spans, and the many contributing factors to this issue. Then, with a rhetorical question, Tritch concludes her essay by proposing one final thought to the audience. “A more important question is how many people will die too soon before policymakers take corrective action?” (7).
Both the usage of hypophora and rhetorical questions allow for Tritch to interact with her audience, and give them the opportunity to consider what a large number of citizens experience on a daily basis. She also raises alarm within the country, by forcing people to wonder just how many more deaths will occur until the government finally takes notice. This is her way of spreading the alarming news to the public, because the only way a change will occur is if large amounts of people know and speak up about it.
Tritch, Teresa. "Stressful Workplaces, Shorter Lives." Taking Note Stressful Workplaces Shorter Lives Comments. New York Times, 22 Oct. 2015. Web. 25 Oct. 2015.
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