The documentary The Cove uses pathos and ethos to bring urgency to ending the dolphin slaughter in Taiji, Japan. Former dolphin trainer Ric O' Barry feels responsible for the harms of captivity after the dolphin he trained for the TV show Flipper committed suicide in his arms. His personal experience and guilt give him credibility in opposing the capture and killing of dolphins. By sharing his story, Ric aims to educate viewers and motivate action to protect dolphins.