Monday, May 02, 2005

rhetoricians beware... here I come.

Obviously, from a number of my previous posts, I think that one of the biggest problems with rhetoric is the fact that we are too readily eager to accept it without question. When I hear a speech, I want to be able to ask questions in a comfortable atmosphere. I think that when a speaker is scheduled to come and give a speech, they should present a loose outline of what they wish to accomplish through their words. I don't know about anyone else, but a brief Q and A session after a talk just doesn't do it for me. I need time to process through the information and research a little before hearing what the rhetoric of the speaker. Almost anyone who would be invited to speak anywhere should have a website or at least access to the website of the place he/she is speaking. Posting this would not take long and would benefit all those who wish to be prepared for the speech. Yes, this would keep the speaker on his/her toes both during and after the presenation, but why should this deter anyone from making this a reality? Half of the audience would never look at the outline, the speaker will be more prepared in order to avoid embarrassment after the speech and the public will become more informed without even realizing it. How is this a bad idea?! Furthermore, if the speaker truly has something important to say that they care about, why would they want their audience to be ignorant on their subject? See, everyone wins here. There is absolutely nothing wrong with making a speaker earn their money.
*Thanks to everyone for a great semester. It's been a lot of fun and very interesting (I know... fun AND educational at the same time- who knew?!) If anyone is here this summer come and look me up, I'll be serving at the Blue Heron... Good luck to everyone!
Alden

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