Thinking Rhetorically - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the lecture notes on rhetoric, ethics, listening, and rhetorical interpretation.

Rhetoric

The art, theory, and practice of ethical communication used to persuade others through language; begins with listening and aims for mutual understanding and common ground as alternatives to violence.

Ethical rhetoric

Rhetoric practiced in a way that is honest, respectful, and aimed at understanding and resolving differences without coercion or harm.

Wayne Booth

Rhetoric scholar who argued that rhetoric is an ethical art and the primary alternative to war, emphasizing listening and mutual understanding.

Mutual understanding

A shared comprehension between speakers that fosters negotiation and reduces conflict; a key goal of ethical rhetoric.

Common ground

Shared beliefs or interests that enable agreement and collaboration in discussion or debate.

Parlor metaphor

Kenneth Burke’s idea that entering a late, heated conversation requires listening to grasp the argument’s tenor before contributing.

Kenneth Burke

A prominent rhetorician known for his theories of dramatism and the 'parlor metaphor,' which illustrates rhetorical engagement.

Rhetorical listening

Krista Ratcliffe’s concept of listening to understand others’ viewpoints, establishing goodwill, and engaging with differing perspectives.

Krista Ratcliffe

A contemporary rhetoric scholar who developed the influential concept of 'rhetorical listening' to promote understanding across differences.

Epictetus

Stoic philosopher who urged listening before speaking—two ears and one mouth—to understand others.

Aristotle

Ancient Greek philosopher whose view on rhetoric emphasized its role in conveying ethical messages and identifying unethical ones.

Cicero

Roman statesman and orator who believed that considering alternative viewpoints and counterarguments strengthens an argument.

Unethical rhetoric

Rhetoric used to manipulate, dehumanize, or incite violence; can lead to harm when misused.

Hitler (example of unethical rhetoric)

Adolf Hitler's use of rhetoric serves as a historical example of how language can be employed unethically to justify violence, dehumanization, and oppression.

Persuasion (rhetorical)

The process by which a communicator attempts to influence the beliefs, attitudes, or actions of an audience through reasoned discourse and legitimate appeals.