Examines Chaim Perelman's new rhetoric, concluding that Perelman believes a rhetor linguistically creates a presence by first analyzing how the audience thinks and acts, referring to what the audience holds to be true, and then entering into communion with the audience by expressing the thoughts of the audience. (RAE)

Reflects on the work of Jurgen Habermas to help develop an objective and subjective rhetoric that are not in isolation from each other. Finds communicative competence a challenging conception of rhetoric's humane purpose: namely, the formation of autonomous and responsible speakers, capable of participating fully in the discourse of a speech…

Asserts that the works of Peter Elbow and Kenneth Burke are valuable reference points because they problematize fundamental assumptions within the field of composition that pluralism and factional perspectives typically elide. Describes Elbow's rhetorical magic and shows how magic illuminates Burke's effort. Wonders whether Elbow and Burke…

Offers a methodology for letter and memoranda writing which exchanges an emphasis on forms for one on rhetorical analysis, employing the use of the classical enthymeme. (MS)

Delineates various conceptions of and arguments about problem solving and proposes a means for dealing with these conflicts. Argues that composition studies should strive to find a common language with which proponents of opposing views can communicate with each other. (MS)

Argues that the antagonism which exists between rhetoricians and literary scholars derives partly from the disciplines' differing approaches to the act of writing. Suggests that literature and composition can most clearly be seen as compatible arts within the framework of the theory and history of rhetoric. (MS)

Argues that the new social agendas for education warrant greater attention than generally received among educators. Examines the rhetoric of the George Bush administration. Suggests that this rhetoric asserts a purported ability to solve social ills through individual consumption. Asks if vision can become a goal for rhetoric. (SG)