In this episode, you will learn about the power the comes from developing what Rick calls ethos, or the authenticity and credibility that stems from advocacy tied to core moral principles and beliefs. Rick explains that lawyers are trained to become skilled technicians in logical argument (logos) and to harness the power of emotion (pathos), but few develop the ability to “run on all cylinders” by adding the power of moral advocacy (ethos).
Personal Understanding and GrowthRick provides a roadmap that lawyers can follow to develop the strength that comes with moral advocacy. The first step involves looking inward—to resolve any cognitive dissonance or moral conflict you may have, and to achieve clarity of mission. Rick explains how the “zealous advocacy,” “win at all costs” approach trial law is a cynical model built on corporate values, and lacks the power of a moral approach built on human values. Instead, Rick advocates fighting for a cause, beyond just winning the case.
Rick explains that to harness the power of moral advocacy, the lawyer must “enter the dark alley” to confront and overcome personal demons or character issues that may be stunting personal growth and development. Such issues include over-emphasis on personal ego, a knee-jerk resort to self-pity or macho “tough guy” image, or irrational and outsized fear--fear of losing, performance anxiety, or fear of the loss of a cultivated self image.
Moral Energy and SteadinessOnce a lawyer has done the hard work to grow as a person and to commit to a moral advocacy model, Rick explains that the lawyer can then marshal these powerful forces as a means of persuasion. To do so requires identifying the core moral issues and forces that bear on a dispute, and to understand which of those will resonate most strongly with the jury.
