COMM 5650 - Western Rhetorical Theory

Goals: To study the history of Western thought as applied to understanding and explaining communication processes. To understand the ways in which contemporary thought has been influenced and shaped by previous perspectives and assumptions about the role of communication in society. To critically examine contemporary standards for evaluating communication in light of this history.

Content: The roots and evolution of theories of public communication; perspectives on public discourse from the sophists of ancient Greece to contemporary theorists. Emphasis is given to understanding the evolution of thought in relationship to contemporary ideas about the role of communication in society.

Taught: Annually.

Prerequisite: None, but junior/senior standing is recommended.

Credits: 4 credits