Chapter 3 Response (this book still blows)

And now we have chapter 3. This chapter was less cluttered and saw less tangents and distractions than the previous two, which made it easier to understand and a better read, thank God. It was still too long, though. Ah, well...

If Ramage is suggesting that “matters once determined by authority must be submitted to discussion and negotiation,” than rhetoric is the best method with which to arrive at the truth of these matters. Through rhetorical debate, people can engage in discourse towards finding common ground and reaching a tolerable solution to whatever issue might be at hand. Each side can use rhetoric to enlighten the other as to the finer points of its argument, and to try to persuade this opponent into perhaps changing viewpoints.

Analyzing the context is important because it enables the speaker to adjust his rhetorical message to fit the situation. Trying to convince a bunch of small-towners as to the necessity of a building a power plant in their town won’t work if the speak uses a bunch of engineering terms and technical jargon rather than explaining the problem in everyday language. People cannot be persuaded if you don’t persuade them on their terms.

Persuasion and coercion differ in one key aspect: choice. In persuasion, the speaker attempts to change the mind of his opponent by presenting facts and arguments that support his claim. At the end of the day, the choice is still the audience’s, and they’re free to see things whatever way they want. The more effective the persuasion, the more likely they might ultimately ally with the speaker, but even the most persuasive speech won’t win over everyone. With coercion, the speaker is attempting to make the opponent’s mind up for him. The speaker’s way is presented as being the only way.