Patrick Moore and Melinda Kreth characterize the workplace as inherently political
In English 503, you have spent a lot of time dealing with rhetorical situations on a local level because most of your discussions have led to the application of rhetorical theory in your workplace contexts. However, contemporary theorists are also considering the role of rhetoric in a global context, which is changing quickly. For example: Barry Thatcher (2010) argues that rhetorical approaches are often based on theories about local contexts, and these approaches must be redefined or adapted to address rhetorical problems beyond the local. To what extent do you see the ethostheory as suitable for addressing global rhetorical problems, such as communication across cultural boundaries?
Looking back on rhetorical appeals as a whole, name one thing that could be simplified when it comes to understanding everyday rhetorical situations and global rhetorical problems
Patrick Moore and Melinda Kreth characterize the workplace as inherently political. They argue that “many problems cannot be solved by persuasion” (p. 303). As a result, they say, technical communicators must follow William Riker’s (1986) notion of heresthetics, or “structuring the world so you can win” (as quoted in Moore & Kreth, p. 303). Ultimately, they see technical writers not only as users of language in the workplace, but also as “communication strategists” (p. 303) who must negotiate and even shape complex political situations as part of their job.
Given the work you have done on your rhetorical analyses this term, to what extent do you agree with Moore and Kreth? As appropriate, refer to the practices, Kairos and ethos and theories you discussed in previous discussion questions and/or in your rhetorical analysis assignments.
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