Overview

This innovative textbook redefines the study of rhetoric by moving beyond traditional teachings of argument structure and logical fallacies to explore the rich tapestry of persuasive messages embedded in everyday life. From political speeches and social media memes to the design of public spaces, this book equips students with the tools to critically analyze and respond to the various forms of rhetoric they encounter daily. It enables readers to critically question what various messages intend for us to think or do. The book not only highlights the importance of rhetorical awareness but also prepares students to face real-world communication challenges, making them more discerning consumers and producers of rhetorical messages. Each chapter features real-world examples, reflection prompts, and practical tools to help readers become more observant, purposeful, and ethically aware communicators. Fostering a deeper understanding of the art of persuasion and its pervasive influence on our thoughts and actions, this text serves as an essential resource for undergraduate students of communication, rhetoric, persuasion and social influence. It will also be of interest to students across various disciplines who are actively engaged in or preparing for workplace roles that require sophisticated communication skills.

Full Product Details

9781032953175

Table of Contents

Reviews

“Rice-Bailey & Baker have written a book that helps students understand the complexities—and importance—of rhetoric in today’s society. The theoretical concepts are deftly explained and then bolstered by recognizable examples and activities that engage students and ask them to grapple with learning one of the most important subjects and skills of our time. If you’ve long wanted an accessible, student-centered rhetoric textbook, then this IS the book FOR YOU.” Lisa Melançon, Clemson University, USA “Everyday Rhetoric fills an important niche for instructors and students hoping to situate their understanding of rhetoric within contemporary contexts and media. Instructors will find that the book provides rich material for discussions without requiring students have a background in theory or specific technologies. Students will find it accessible and thought-provoking.” Dave Clark, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, USA “Everyday Rhetoric is useful for many reasons: Its friendly tone, the broad range of contexts in which students will learn to take a rhetorical approach, and the wow-I'd-actually-use-that suggestions for class discussions and activities are particular highlights. But one of my favorite things about Rice-Bailey and Baker’s text is how current the technological and cultural references are -- and they're incorporated so naturally.” Kristin Prins, California State Polytechnic University, USA

Author Information

Tammy Rice-Bailey is a Professor in the Humanities, Social Science and Communication department at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, USA. She is also the co-author of Interpersonal Skills for Group Collaboration (Routledge, 2023). Kimberly S. Baker is an Instructor in the Humanities, Social Science and Communication department at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, USA.

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