"Rhetoric" is one of the words used in English courses that has always intimidated me. An assignment to write about Rhetoric was a little frightening to say the least. To be honest I really didn't know where to begin. As a student I have heard the definition of Rhetoric multiple times. Unfortunately when the subject came up in our last class I caught myself searching my memory for anything at all that came close to resembling a definition. No such luck. As we discussed the subject in class I began to realize why I didn't have a clear definition.
In my world every communication uses rhetoric naturally. Whether intentionally or subconsciously everyone is trying to persuade whomever they are communicating with. When people communicate with peers or close friends they constantly search for validation. The common phrase "You know what I mean?" comes to mind. If whomever they are speaking with does not agree the most common response is to go into more detail or re-iterate what they have already said. I find myself using all three forms of Rhetoric we discussed in every day life. I am personally a logical thinker so I approach nearly all aspects of my life logically first. If logic does not work I appeal to the emotions, if that doesn't work I find a way to make it relate to my audience personally. It is a natural human desire to want others to agree with you or see your point of view.
Unfortunately politics have given rhetoric a bad reputation. When people use the art of persuasion to influence people negatively it begins to lose some of it's natural beauty. Like most things in life, no matter how useful a tool can be in the right hands, it is just as devastating in the wrong ones. Once society realizes that all modern communication has an underlying desire to persuade them, people may lose the ability to see things for what they are. I have found that in the workplace people are constantly searching for a hidden agenda. It is sad to think that the pure form of communication has been so thoroughly tainted that we can no longer take things at face value.
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I agree with Meadow's point about politics giving rhetoric a bad reputation. Political figures have always promised a lot…but rarely came through in the end.
ReplyDeleteHey, thanks, Meadow! I really enjoy your posts as well. :D Funny about the math and English thing! To each his own, right? :P I'll do your English hw and you can do my math...;)
ReplyDeletePlease speak up in class and remind me to talk about your post. Good stuff!
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