According to Aristotle, rhetoric “is the art of discovering in any particular case all of the available means of persuasion.”
Most modern and contemporary definitions tend to take this classical definition of rhetoric as their starting point.
For example, Kenneth Burke, one of the 20th century’s greatest rhetorical theorists, gave this explanation of rhetoric: “it is rooted in an essential function of language itself… as a symbolic means of inducing cooperation in beings that by nature respond to symbols.”
Here, we can see three of the core elements which comprise the field of rhetoric today. In contemporary theory, the study of rhetoric is not contained to persuasion or argumentation, but also encompasses ideas regarding the nature of language itself.
THE 3 KEYS OF RHETORIC
What is Rhetoric?
- SYMBOLIC
It is representational. It uses symbols such as letters, images, gestures, etc. that stand for something else. There is not always a direct, 1-to-1 relationship between the symbol and the meaning behind it, with different people perceiving different connotations and meanings for a given symbol.
2. COMMUNICATIVE
It expresses thought or opinion. It may be used in an attempt to express truth or to persuade and convince others.
3.SOCIAL
It occurs in the interaction between people. It involves a rhetor, or speaker, and an audience who will receive and evaluate their message.
So why study rhetoric and magic?
Many of you, I’m sure, have heard the phrase “thoughts become things.”
It is a well-known concept that you attract what you think about [known as the Law of Attraction].
“For as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.”
If you believe in magic and manifestation, it is wise to also examine your thoughts and the words used to express them.
Human beings are something like a projection machine, and the words and images inside of us are the film. The outer environment is simply the screen that holds the pictures we have chosen to display in front of us.
This means that the study of language and rhetoric can help us become more conscious and intentional about our words and what we will create with them.
