What is the role of rhetoric in influencing people's attitudes and beliefs? How can reader's distinguish between prejudicial and non-prejudicial use of rhetorical devices?
Previous answers to this same question:
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Posted by Ms. Sue on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at 9:47am.
Check these sites to help you answer your question.
(Broken Link Removed)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhetoric
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Posted by Ms. Sue on Monday, July 10, 2006 at 6:25pm.
Check this site.
http://www.jessanderson.org/doc/rr_lingo.html
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http://www.jiskha.com/display.cgi?id=1157494639.1157499174
Posted by PsyDAG on Tuesday, September 5, 2006 at 7:32pm.
Although prejudice is often defined as a negative attitude, we all have prejudices (biases) toward almost everything we consider. Differences occur in terms of how extreme our bias is and how much it influences our actions - including our language. If we are aware of our biases, we can often minimize them.
I will give you some sources dealing with influencing others, but, since rhetorical devices are not in my area of expertise, I will leave it to you to relate the material to them.
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/InfluenceAntecedents.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/InfluenceMorePrinciples.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/InfluenceStillMore.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/MeanNewsMedia.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/Persuasion.html
http://www.members.cox.net/dagershaw/lol/QuestionFrame.html
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Posted by GuruBlue, on Tuesday, January 16, 2007 at 9:19am
This site will give you the problems with prejudicial rhetoric.
http://epochewiki.pbwiki.com/PburghClarkFinalProposal
The following comes from Answers.com
First, let’s look at what the word rhetoric means.
rhet•o•ric (rtr-k)
n.
1.
a. The art or study of using language effectively and persuasively.
b. A treatise or book discussing this art.
2. Skill in using language effectively and persuasively.
3.
a. A style of speaking or writing, especially the language of a particular subject: fiery political rhetoric.
b. Language that is elaborate, pretentious, insincere, or intellectually vacuous: His offers of compromise were mere rhetoric.
4. Verbal communication; discourse.
Now, let’s say, I am a staunch anti-bubble gum lobbyist. In my rhetoric, I preach against bubble gum arguing (1) it causes bad teeth through excessive sugar, as well as continued pull of the teeth by the gum itself; (2) it is too noisy and disruptive when chewed by teenagers; (3) it is too messy and dangerous when chewed by younger children. They swallow it; they forget to take it out of their mouths at night, and it winds up in their hair and one their clothes or bed sheets.
All bubble gum should be banned! (This is an example of prejudicial rhetoric.)
A non-prejudicial use of rhetoric would be for example arguing the republican position on minimum wage increases versus the democrats position on the same subject. The republican position is that a rise in the minimum wage will be a disadvantage and burden on small business. The democrats state that it has been years since the minimum wage has risen and that low income wage earners need this rise. The truth of the matter is that there are very few jobs in the US that are paying as low as the current minimum wage.
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Rhetoric plays a significant role in influencing people's attitudes and beliefs. It refers to the art and study of using language effectively and persuasively. Through the use of rhetorical devices, individuals or groups can shape public opinion, sway emotions, and persuade others to adopt a particular viewpoint.
To distinguish between prejudicial and non-prejudicial use of rhetorical devices, readers should consider a few factors:
1. Objective Information vs. Bias: Prejudicial rhetoric tends to rely on biased or distorted information, generalizations, stereotypes, or personal opinions. Non-prejudicial rhetoric, on the other hand, focuses on presenting objective information, facts, evidence, and logical reasoning.
2. Emotional Appeal vs. Rational Argument: Prejudicial rhetoric often relies heavily on emotional appeal, using manipulative language, exaggerations, or fear tactics to elicit specific emotional responses. Non-prejudicial rhetoric, on the other hand, employs rational arguments, logical reasoning, and appeals to reason and critical thinking.
3. Respectful vs. Derogatory Language: Prejudicial rhetoric may use derogatory language, offensive terms, or personal attacks against individuals or groups. Non-prejudicial rhetoric maintains a respectful tone, avoids personal attacks, and focuses on addressing the issues rather than attacking individuals.
4. Inclusive vs. Exclusive Language: Prejudicial rhetoric often promotes a sense of division, exclusion, or discrimination, emphasizing differences and highlighting stereotypes. Non-prejudicial rhetoric seeks to include diverse perspectives, encourages open dialogue, and aims to find common ground and understanding.
By carefully evaluating the language used, the tone, the use of evidence, and the overall intent behind the rhetoric, readers can distinguish between prejudicial and non-prejudicial use of rhetorical devices. It's essential to remain critical, consider different sources, and engage in thoughtful analysis to form well-informed opinions.