Rhetoric is persuasive communication used to convince an audience of a particular point of view. It was codified by Aristotle and is still used in speech and debate. Rhetoric is an art form that uses literary and argumentative techniques, such as logos, pathos, and ethos. It is widely used in politics, religion, law, and advertising. However, it can be used to convey false or harmful messages, so it must be used responsibly.
Rhetoric is persuasive communication. That is, it is any form of speech or writing that is intended to convince an audience of a particular point of view rather than merely conveying information. The principles of rhetoric were codified by Aristotle and other Greek philosophers in ancient times. These principles are still followed by modern speakers in the fields of speech and debate. In a broader sense, rhetoric can refer to the actual use of language in any form of speech.
The term “rhetoric” has many definitions. The first definitions were established by the Greek philosopher Aristotle in his influential 4th century treatise on the subject. For Greek and later Roman civilization, the principles of persuasive speech were of paramount importance. Early governing bodies, such as Greece’s Athenian Assembly and the Roman Senate, decided critical issues as a result of such speeches and debates. Aristotle’s work on the subject survived the collapse of Greek civilization and has since been studied by scholars of the subject, called rhetoricians.
In essence, rhetoric is an art form. Those who master this art are more likely to convince listeners of their points of view, whatever they may be. To this end, rhetoricians will use a wide variety of literary techniques, including metaphors, hyperbole or allegory. They may also use argumentative techniques such as logic, emotional manipulation, or personal charm to win over their audience. Aristotle referred to the latter techniques as logos, pathos and ethos, respectively.
Rhetoric is widely used in many fields of human activity. Politicians may employ numerous rhetorical techniques to outwit opponents or support a particular cause or enterprise. Clergy in many faiths must master rhetorical skills to serve their congregations. Lawyers employ these same skills to persuade juries and judges in the courtroom. The field of advertising is famous for its mastery of persuasive techniques to sell products and services to consumers.
Note that none of these fields require the message being conveyed to be true, accurate, or helpful. The art of rhetoric applies only to the delivery of information, not to its inner context. Indeed, many speakers throughout history have used these techniques to persuade audiences to commit deadly deeds for themselves or others. Examples include mass murderers Charles Manson and Jim Jones and notorious Nazi leader Adolph Hitler. Rhetoric is a powerful tool and, like any tool, it must be used responsibly.
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