RHE306_1

.docx

School

University of Texas *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

306

Subject

Communications

Date

Feb 20, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

3

Uploaded by BailiffTankSeahorse37

Report
The provided text offers an overview of the historical and philosophical context of rhetoric, discussing its varied perceptions and controversies. Here are some key points: 1. **Diverse Meanings of Rhetoric:** - The term "rhetoric" has acquired various meanings, with some associating it with empty talk or deception. - Wayne Booth's quote highlights the initial challenges in understanding rhetoric due to its diverse interpretations. 2. **Historical Criticisms of Rhetoric:** - Plato's "Gorgias" is mentioned as one of the earliest and influential discussions critical of rhetoric . Plato, through Socrates, views rhetoric negatively, condemning it as "foul" and "ugly." - John Locke, in the 17th century, echoed Plato's sentiments, considering rhetoric as a tool for insinuating wrong ideas and misleading judgment. 3. **Nietzsche's Perspective:** - Friedrich Nietzsche provides a more measured assessment of rhetoric, recognizing its conscious application of artistic means of speaking. He suggests that rhetoric is a further development of artistic means already present in language. 4. **Rhetoric's Struggle for Credibility:** - The text notes that since Plato's time, rhetoric has faced criticism and a struggle to redeem its tarnished image. - Scholars like Wayne Booth, Richard McKeon, and others in the 20th century have re-evaluated rhetoric, considering it a universal and architectonic art that organizes and structures other disciplines. 5. **Modern Views on Rhetoric:** - Richard Lanham advocates a return to rhetorical studies to understand the impact of digital devices on reading and writing. He suggests that rhetoric's original thinking can guide us in adapting to new forms of communication. - Andrea Lunsford emphasizes the relevance of rhetoric in understanding the changing landscape of digital communication and how writing can impact the world. 6. **Mixed Reviews of Rhetoric:** - The discussion concludes by acknowledging rhetoric's Jekyll and Hyde qualities—shifting between helpful and constructive to deceptive and manipulative. - The mixed reviews of rhetoric are attributed to its association with persuasion, a fundamental yet often suspect human activity.
Overall, the text provides a glimpse into the complex history and varied perspectives on rhetoric, highlighting its ongoing relevance and the challenges it faces in public perception. If you have specific questions or if there's a particular aspect you'd like to explore further, feel free to let me know! The provided text explores the close relationship between rhetoric and persuasion, highlighting the historical association and the dual nature of persuasion as both essential and often mistrusted. It further discusses the pervasive role of persuasion in various aspects of life, including work, personal relationships, sports, medicine, and more. The text emphasizes that persuasion is a universal human activity, and individuals engage in persuasive efforts regularly. It also acknowledges the internal aspect of persuasion, where individuals persuade themselves in decision-making processes. Moreover, the text expands the discussion to include various symbol systems beyond language, such as music, dance, acting, painting, architecture, sports, and unexpected locations like typeface in printing. The author argues that these symbol systems convey meaning and can be considered rhetorical in nature. The definition of rhetoric is explored, with scholars offering different perspectives. Rhetoric is defined as the systematic study and intentional practice of effective symbolic expression, encompassing goals such as persuasion, clarity, beauty, and mutual understanding. The term "rhetorical discourse" is introduced to refer to messages crafted according to the principles of rhetoric. The text concludes by mentioning the expansion of rhetoric's goals and symbolic resources, leading to the consideration of different kinds of rhetoric. It also introduces six distinguishing qualities of rhetorical discourse, setting it apart from other types of communication. If you have specific questions or if there's a particular aspect you'd like to explore further, feel free to let me know! Discussion Post 2: What is Rhetoric? 44 unread replies.66 replies. Before completing this discussion post, read the Course Theme Guide, and the following: The Introduction to Jodie Nicotra's Becoming Rhetorical Herrick's "An Overview of Rhetoric up to where it's marked "stop for Unit 1.", The sections assigned last week of Plato's Gorgias Then, write a post of at least 350 words, which addresses the following: How would you define rhetoric
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
  • Access to all documents
  • Unlimited textbook solutions
  • 24/7 expert homework help