Presents a theory of debate as a comparison of policy systems, a theory which satisfies the unique speech act requirements of discussing policy proposals. Describes the basic model and illustrates it by reference to the interpretation of "should" propositions and the analysis of burdens of proof. (JMF)

Presents evidence of a correspondence between the political perspective a speaker advocates and the types of rhetorical strategies the speaker employs. The rhetoric of radicals, liberals, and conservatives indicates that the political ideas these three groups of speakers share are reflected in consistent stylistic and argumentative strategies.…

John Henry Newman's unconventional "Essay in Aid of a Grammar of Assent" is analyzed as a potential text for rhetoric instructors. (HTH)

Examines the origins and activities of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) on the labor scene from 1905 to 1917. Investigates the evolution of song as a rhetorical device used by the IWW. Focuses on the lyrics and usage of selected songs produced by the organization. (JMF)

Proposes that English teachers have an obligation to give more attention to how language can be used in politics. Examines the characteristics of the basic political message. Offers eight suggestions for classroom exercises. (RL)

Legal realism is used to illuminate the motivational character of the rhetorical actions comprising the law. Re-examines traditional sources of rhetoric in this light and finds them to be inadequate to provide a full view of legal actions. Outlines what such a full view of legal motives would involve. (JMF)

Examines three rhetorical techniques that Franklin D. Roosevelt used in his "First Inaugural Address" to announce and implement his New Deal. The various speech drafts examined reveal that he purposefully used military metaphor, the scapegoat, and the carrot-and-stick approach to accomplish certain persuasive goals. (JMF)

Analyzes the rhetorical practices and the theoretical writings of Dionysius of Halicarnassus. Concludes that he regarded orations as practical instruments and that the judgment that he was disinterested in persuasion is untenable. (JMF)

Suggests that argument be seen as a private cognitive phenomenon, in contrast to the more traditional view of argument as a public message-based document. Differences between the views are noted and the respects in which argument creates and depends on cognitive order are discussed. (JMF)

Presents a rhetorical criticism of Wayne Brockriede's article, "Arguers as Lovers," which suggests that argumentative rape, seduction, and love can be determined by examining the attitudes, intents, and consequences of arguers. Discusses definitional problems and the tentative attitude, as well as the one-dimensionality, of the original article.…

Analyzes Jimmy Carter's success in the 1976 presidential primaries in terms of his rhetorical style based on Max Weber's concept of charisma and Ernest Bormann's theory of fantasy and rhetorical vision. The combination of Carter's charismatic message and the country's social fantasies produced his election. (JMF)

Reports on a study designed to test whether or not individuals ingesting alcohol will be less affected by persuasive messages than individuals in a normal state. (PD)

An assessment of how Mahatma Gandhi and Mao Tse-tung were able to succeed as mass communicators without the use of modern means of communication. (PD)

The author presents examples of subliminal or indirect advertising in the mass media and suggests that advertising analysis be part of the elementary curriculum so that children can become sensitized to such nonverbal influences on their behavior. (SJL)

Suggests a method for teaching the writing of persuasive letters in a context that seems relevant and significant to students. (TJ)