Michael Auslin The Filth They Breathe In China Summary

American writer and political analyst, Michael Auslin argumentative essay “The Filth They Breathe in China” (January 11, 2017) argues China’s air quality is harmful and extremely dangerous to the people of China and their environment. Auslin conveys his argument through logos, pathos and imagery. Auslin’s purpose is to illustrate to his readers China’s economic growth destroying its environment. Auslins strengthens his overall point by adopting a convincing tone for readers with a concern for the environment.
Auslin persuades his audience by the use of logos throughout the essay. Auslins asserts his point through informational facts about China’s air quality. Auslins defends his point by stating “ By some estimates, only 1 percent of China’s

urban dwellers breathe safe air. During the winter of 2012-13, levels of the most dangerous type of particulate matter in Beijing’s air were over 20 times the amount recommended by the World Health Organization. Midday in Beijing looked like late evening, and residents were urged to stay inside” (Paragraph 4). Auslin continues to defend his point through the use of other statistics such as “The World Bank concluded in 2007 that 60,000 deaths occur each year from diarrhea, cancer and other diseases caused by the waterborne pollution. Auslin’s usage of logos is persuasive to his readers and gives them a look into the effects a poor environment can cause.