Pathos (from paschein, the Greek word meaning "to suffer") is an appeal to another's pride or character in general. It is a means of persuasion. It is a part of Aristotle's philosophies in rhetoric.

These are qualities of a fictional or nonfictional work that evoke sorrow or pity. Overmotionalism can be the result of an excess of pathos. See also: Rhetoric

Pathos, in rhetoric, is considered an emotional appeal to the reader's heart in order to persuade. The most apparent use of pathos lies within Capitalism and it's marketing tactics when convincing the market segment they need product x.