Mikael Colvilles Speech addresses the reasons the reasons he believes bicycle helmets should not be used. Colvilles occupation gives the audience the impression that he is a credible source before he begins speaking. Colville is the bicycle ambassador for Copenhagen enforcing the idea that he is a credible source and is heavily immersed in bicycle culture making him well informed about the subject which is a key factor in credibility.
Colvilles intelligence on the subject is emphasised through his use of research and statistics throughout his speech. Colville opens by presenting some of his own research about how effective helmets. He then poses the question why do cyclists have to wear helmets but those using motor vehicles do not. In demonstrating that he has spent extensive time researching Colville is able to show the audience that this is a topic he is extremely passionate about. He also recognises that using only his own research does not validate his argument. He goes on to reference other reliable sources such as Monash University and talks about the research they have done into why those driving cars should be wearing helmets. Colville is able to use this to reiterate his argument but also keep his own credibility intact by showing there are other sources that see things from a similar perspective.
Colvilles speech is presented in a way that shows he does care about both the well being of the audience but also that of broader society. Colville says that one of the problems with enforcing helmets is that it gives the audience the impression that cycling is dangerous. He explains this by saying that we live in a society that is heavily influenced by the potential risks of our actions. As a result of this many people automatically rule out cycling as a mode of transport when in reality is is potentially safer than travelling by motor vehicles that don’t require any safety equipment. Colville does not only address the safety benefits of cycling but also goes on to explain the benefits for both the health of the individual riding and the positive environmental impact. The way Colville speaks about this topic shows he is not only trying to convince the audience to agree with him but genuinely wants them to take their own safety into consideration when travelling.
Although much of his presentation seems credible Colville he fails to address the ways in which helmets can be effective. However, he does admit that he is “incredibly biased” in his thinking, in doing this he helps his audience recognise that there are other sides to this debate and they may want to look into these before choosing where they sit in regards to this topic.
Overall, Colville delivers a strong presentation about why he believes that helmets are damaging to bicycle culture. He puts forward a strong argument on a controversial and is able to focus on a single issue through the use of several ways of thinking.