To think or act rhetorically:
- To articulate in an effective and persuasive manner by providing a well informed position or argument while still being open to the ideas of others.
Most definitions I have found on the term "rhetoric" explain it as the art of persuasion, but what I have gleaned from the rest of those definitions is that it isn't as much about persuading anyone as it is about applying the most effective formatting to your writing.
The first step for the author, or speaker, is to know what it is they are talking about. They must understand their argument or idea is so that they can form an opinion, research and provide the applicable information. While researching, it is best to look into and comprehend what opposing views might be so as to provide rebuttals to those arguments.
The author must also understand for who they are presenting their information. Knowing whose ears their work while reach provides the author with basic do's and don't in regards to language and formality. Also, different audiences provide opportunities for different types of presentations, meaning the author can apply other mediums to their presentation besides text.
In addition to providing formatting information, understanding the audience can provide the author with insight on how best to persuade the viewers. Having some idea where the reader or spectator is coming from allows the author to compose the information in a way that may be more accessible.
I like your definition. I like how you mentioned to make sure that you have opposing views for rebuttals.
ReplyDeleteI like how you stated not only your definiton of rhetoric but what the definition would be if you were to look it up in a dictionary, or even online
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your statement that authors/speakers should know what they are talking about. Fact-checking is so important to the writing process.
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ReplyDeleteAll the points you make are valid, and I agree with Ellie in saying that fact checking is a huge part of making a statement of any sort.