Rhetoric of the Human Sciences: Language and Argument in the Academy

Introduction

In "Rhetoric of the Human Sciences," Charles Bazerman argues that the way we write and speak in the academy is not simply a matter of conveying information. Rather, it is a rhetorical act that serves to persuade and convince our audience. Bazerman draws on a wide range of examples from across the disciplines to show how language is used to create knowledge, build arguments, and shape our understanding of the world.

The Rhetorical Situation

Bazerman begins by arguing that all writing and speaking is situated in a particular rhetorical situation. This situation includes the writer or speaker, the audience, the purpose of the communication, and the context in which it takes place. Bazerman shows how these factors shape the way we use language and the strategies we employ to persuade our audience.

The Language of the Human Sciences

Bazerman then turns to an analysis of the language of the human sciences. He argues that the language of these disciplines is not neutral or objective, but rather is shaped by the values and assumptions of the communities that produce it. Bazerman shows how this can lead to bias and distortion in our understanding of the world.

The Argumentative Structure of the Human Sciences

Bazerman next examines the argumentative structure of the human sciences. He argues that the way we organize our arguments and present our evidence is not simply a matter of logic, but also of rhetoric. Bazerman shows how we can use rhetorical strategies to make our arguments more persuasive and to appeal to our audience's emotions and values.

The Ethics of the Human Sciences

Finally, Bazerman considers the ethical implications of the rhetoric of the human sciences. He argues that we have a responsibility to use language in a responsible and ethical way, and that we should be aware of the potential for our words to mislead or deceive.

Conclusion

"Rhetoric of the Human Sciences" is a powerful and provocative book that challenges the way we think about writing and speaking in the academy. Bazerman's analysis of the rhetorical situation, the language of the human sciences, the argumentative structure of these disciplines, and the ethics of the human sciences provides a new framework for understanding how we communicate our ideas and shape our understanding of the world. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the role of language in the academy and the public sphere.

Why You Should Read This Book

"Rhetoric of the Human Sciences" is a must-read for anyone interested in the role of language in the academy and the public sphere. Bazerman's analysis of the rhetorical situation, the language of the human sciences, the argumentative structure of these disciplines, and the ethics of the human sciences provides a new framework for understanding how we communicate our ideas and shape our understanding of the world. This book is essential reading for anyone who wants to write and speak more effectively in the academy and beyond.

How to Buy This Book

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