1. The Art and Science of Influence
Rhetoric
The Art and Science of
Influence 1

2. The Rhetorical Tradition Advocates that:
Truth by nature is dialectical
Rhetoric is an Art
Rhetoric is a humane study

3. Rhetoric as Art and Science
Dialectical Nature
Reality depends on symbols
Our reality is created by and rooted in and shaped by our symbols
Example—Orwell’s 1984
Reality is probable
A stream of truth and untruth with truth revealed in conversation (Plato)
In the absence of such a dialogue evil results
Example—Nazi Germany and group think

4. Rhetoric as Art and Science Continued
Rhetoric is an Art
Three parts to the Art
Theory—principles, statements , description that control and predict a situation
Model—pictures, examples, lessons
Practice—do it again an again
Trilogy of this Art
Rule bound—Dale Carnegie's or Toast Masters are examples
Rule less—anarchy or just talk, stream of consciousness
Rule guided—Aristotle, speech text book

5. Rhetoric as Art and Science Continued
Ultimate End of Rhetoric (four characteristics)
Promoting the common good
Providing freedom of choice (physical safety)
Admitting when wrong
Allowing the audience to make informed decisions (psychological safety)

6. What is the difference between art and science?2

7. Talent Theory Practice
Isocrates helps:
Talent
Theory
Practice 3

8. A gift from the gods Myth The Rhetoric Wave
Rhetoric was first:
A gift from the gods
Myth
The Rhetoric Wave 4

9. Perspectives on the Rise Fall of Rhetoric's Origins:
The Rhetoric Wave
Perspectives on the Rise Fall of Rhetoric's Origins:
God/Myth?
“heavenly”
The Church Age
Pre-sophists
Post Modernism:
Contemporary
Sophists ?
In the Beginning
the “Word”?
Protagoras/Aristotle?
Romans
Enlightenment/Science
Natural/Human?
“earthy”

10. Rhetoric Today Attacks Flattery, cookery, knack (Plato) Returns
Alluding-to play (Kant)
To cancel the Truth (Philosophers)
Returns
Jobs
Marriage
Success
Organize information 5