Week 12

My understanding of the word rhetoric is very shallow. I have heard the word being used as a synonym for the word argument and persuasion. My definition of rhetoric would be the presentation of a sound and researched argument. Therefore, I believe that most aspects of life could be considered rhetoric. The way one dresses makes a statement that one believe this is the best way to dress. The food one eats states that one thinks it is the best. I believe that everything we do is unintentionally or intentionally rhetoric. I do not often hear the word rhetoric being used in society; in fact, I am certain I had never heard it before my English 103 class last semester. In that class, I heard rhetoric used in a number of debates and read it in many scholarly articles. However, I've never heard the word rhetoric used in our society. Other words that are similar to rhetoric (argument, persuasion, debate) in our society. They are often used in political situations and in academic research or discussions. Rhetoric is typically used in a positive way. I understand that many people would disagree with me. I believe that rhetoric is the most informative way to present a case or a cause. The information should be accurate and well thought out, and rhetoric should be controversial. This does not mean that the argument necessarily needs to be harmful. That is why I believe rhetoric is the most influential form of debate. I do not think that rhetoric is a part of my subculture. The only way I can understand rhetoric in my subculture would be in their fight for the rights of those with disabilities. This is an underlying foundation for the Special Olympics. I suppose one way I could incorporate rhetoric in my mini-ethnography would be to discuss with workers and volunteers how the Special Olympics' argument for more rights has helped those with disabilities. This could be included in my mini-ethnography to help show my readers the positive contribution of the Special Olympics.