Against the Rhetoricians - Sextus Empiricus

Against the Rhetoricians: A Skeptic's Critique of Persuasive Discourse

In his seminal work, "Against the Rhetoricians," the ancient Greek philosopher Sextus Empiricus mounts a powerful critique of the art of rhetoric, arguing that it is a deceptive and harmful practice that undermines the pursuit of truth and wisdom. Sextus draws upon a wide range of philosophical and rhetorical traditions to support his claims, offering a comprehensive and devastating critique of the rhetorical enterprise.

The Nature of Rhetoric

Sextus begins by defining rhetoric as "the art of persuasion," and he argues that it is a form of deception that relies on manipulating the emotions and passions of the audience rather than presenting rational arguments. He contends that rhetoricians use a variety of techniques, such as flattery, fear-mongering, and appeals to authority, to sway their audience's opinions without regard for the truth or falsity of their claims.

The Dangers of Rhetoric

Sextus argues that rhetoric is a dangerous art because it can be used to promote harmful beliefs and actions. He points to the example of the sophists, a group of ancient Greek philosophers who were known for their use of rhetoric to win arguments regardless of the truth of their positions. Sextus argues that the sophists' teachings led to moral decline and political instability in ancient Greece, and he warns that rhetoric can have similar effects in any society.

The Skeptic's Alternative

Sextus contrasts rhetoric with the skeptical approach to philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of doubt and the pursuit of truth. He argues that skeptics are more likely to reach true knowledge because they are not swayed by emotional appeals or dogmatic beliefs. Sextus encourages readers to adopt a skeptical attitude towards all claims, including those made by rhetoricians, and to seek out the truth for themselves.

Conclusion

"Against the Rhetoricians" is a powerful and persuasive critique of the art of rhetoric. Sextus Empiricus provides a wealth of evidence to support his claims, and he offers a compelling alternative to the rhetorical approach to persuasion. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the philosophy of rhetoric, the pursuit of truth, or the art of persuasion.

Why You Should Read "Against the Rhetoricians"

If you are interested in any of the following topics, then you should read "Against the Rhetoricians":

• The philosophy of rhetoric
• The pursuit of truth
• The art of persuasion
• Skepticism
• Ancient Greek philosophy
• The history of ideas

This book is a classic work of philosophy that has stood the test of time. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the dangers of rhetoric and the importance of seeking out the truth.

How to Purchase "Against the Rhetoricians"

"Against the Rhetoricians" is available in a variety of formats, including hardcover, paperback, and ebook. You can purchase the book from a variety of online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Powell's Books. You can also find the book in many libraries.