Rhetoric in Civic Life

Rhetoric in Civic Life

• Topical organization interweaves classical and contemporary theories, illuminating rhetorical concepts through the interplay of various perspectives.
• Substantive, clear, engaging explanations make complex ideas accessible and pertinent to students.
• Abundant historical and contemporary examples illustrate the role of rhetoric in political, cultural, and social contexts, as well as in students’ own lives.
• Emphasis on civic discourse focuses rhetorical concepts in terms of cultural issues and public controversies.
• Pedagogical features include: key concepts listed at the beginning of each chapter; discussion questions at the end of each chapter; and recommended readings for each chapter.

<i>Rhetoric in Civic Life</i> provides a richly textured introduction to rhetorical theory and concepts. Sophisticated yet accessible, it guides students in exploring rhetorical action in a democratic society.<p>Interweaving classical and contemporary concepts in a topical structure, the book shows how people in a diverse society shape ideas, make decisions about common concerns, and create social realities through symbolic action.<p>A rich array of historical and contemporary examples shows how words, images, arguments, and narratives create social and cultural identities and have consequences to civic life, public discourse and dissent, and social policies.