Speaking to Persuade

Speaking to Persuade

Speaking to Persuade views controversy as constructive rather than obstructive. Framing persuasion as a cooperative act based on dialectical interchange between speakers and listeners, this text provides a roadmap for achieving productive civic engagement in democratic societies, however polarized they may be. This fourth edition again translates theory into practice, first by emphasizing invention and critical thinking to formulate ideas, and second by advancing practice in the rhetorical canons: awakening vivid language and reliable memory to enliven speech delivery - developing reasoning and refutation skills - organizing coherent and convincing messages, - navigating political polarization, balancing inclusive speech with freedom of speech, and stimulating rigorous evidence analysis - adapting basic persuasive principles to prominent persuasive genres: sales, legal summations, public advocacy, and social commentary. In addition, students have access to KHQ ―an independent study app available on Google Play and Apple Stores―that includes customized study sections, flash cards, quizzes, explanations of incorrect answers, and an overview of personal performance. To make the transition to the publication virtually seamless for adopting instructors, the author has developed sample syllabi, a full slate of course assignments and grading rubrics, video speech links, slide presentations, and a test bank. As a textbook for the college persuasion course, Speaking to Persuade also serves as a self-help workbook in speech skills and as a speech-writing guide for professional speechwriters and their clients. Annotated sample speeches with online examples demonstrate how others have practiced well the art of rhetoric in an array of contexts.