JQ-Adams-Arguments-Against-Eloquence-Considered

Introduction to "Arguments Against Eloquence Considered"

• Author: John Quincy Adams

• Context: Lecture series at Harvard University, 1810 (published post-resignation)

• Purpose: To refute common arguments against rhetoric: minutiae, frivolity, danger.

Main Arguments Against Rhetoric

• Minutiae: Dismissed as a superficial view of rhetoric's true value.

• Frivolous Nature: Critics claim rhetoric serves no serious purpose.

• Dangerous Impact: The most significant argument claims rhetoric as a threat; it is seen as perverting truth and reason.

Eloquence as a Double-Edged Sword

• Criticism depicts eloquence as:

  • A tool for fraud and deception.

  • A means to confuse and distort rational discourse.

  • A promoter of corrupted values, where dishonor gets glorified.

• Adams counters by pointing out:

  • Such abuses reflect on human nature rather than rhetoric itself.

  • Strength, intellect, beauty, valor, and genius can also be misused.

Defense of Rhetoric

• False Basis of Criticism: Arguments against rhetoric due to its misuse fail to account for its legitimate use.

• Importance of Eloquence:

  • Powerful tool in promoting virtue against vice.

  • Protects societal values; skilled rhetoric is indispensable against immoral uses.

Historical Examples Supporting Rhetoric's Value

• Importance of eloquence highlighted through historical references:

  • Demosthenes: His eloquence defended Athens against tyranny.

  • Cicero: His speeches saved Rome from destruction by immoral leaders.

• Adams argues that the need for righteous eloquence is most urgent when it is used malignantly.

Rhetoric in American Context

• Rhetoric integral to the American identity, particularly in a democracy:

  • Eloquence thrives in free states and is necessary where persuasion is key.

  • The art of speaking must be developed when diverse, independent communities interact.

Rhetoric’s Relation to Liberty

• Eloquence is depicted as following the principles of liberty:

  • Highly effective when different communities cooperate.

  • Historical parallel to Grecian commonwealths, where democracy encouraged oratory excellence.

• Youthful Americans: Encouragement for students to cultivate their rhetorical skills:

  • Current American society mirrors conditions that allowed Greek rhetoric to flourish.

  • Schools foster skills necessary for civic engagement in a republican system.

Conclusion

• Rhetoric is vital for societal progress, particularly in maintaining liberty and fostering civic dialogue.

• Adams urges Striving for eloquence in service to the greater good, closing with a call for active engagement from future generations.