Rhetoric is hard to define in a dictionary sense because of how flexible it is. Rhetoric is a discussion, “BS,” a speech, effective communication, deceit, humanity. Even an action can be defined as rhetoric if said action acts as an analogy and in the absence of words, but still gets its message across just as or sometimes more effectively. These are all true in some regard because there is no cookie cutter definition that encompasses its sheer scope. Rhetoric’s definition ultimately resides within the core every piece of rhetoric, the purpose of its existence. Even in a casual discussion, there is an underlying reason why the conversation exists in the first place. Is the person trying to persuade the other that their side of the story is correct? Is the person lying in hopes of gaining sympathy/allies, or are they portraying their genuine beliefs? Is the person telling the story because they can? Questions like these are essential in how one examines rhetoric and its impact on day-to-day life.
However, its potential to deceive is what makes many skeptical of the practice, which is why it’s important to find a way to make it more palatable to them. James Hendrick defines rhetoric as “…the art of rhetoric as the systematic study and intentional practice of effective symbolic expression.” As friendly as this definition is, it negates rhetoric’s persuasive nature, making it seem no different than the act of communication. While rhetoric is a big aspect of communication, rhetoric is how effective/persuasive said communication is. If a person acts to deceive and it works, then that is effective rhetoric. If a person seeks to do good, but is ignored, then that is noneffective rhetoric. As horrible as this may sound, rhetoric is a neutral art. It’s ultimately up to the individual to use it as they see fit because rhetoric can be either a tool or weapon. Making it completely palatable to a wider audience is tricky because of its fickle nature and there will always be skeptics. However, encouraging a more positive view of the art is always a good way to start.
