Exploration of specialized areas in communication. Focus of course varies each semester. The battle we have fought, and are still fighting for the forests is a part of the eternal conflict between right and wrong, and we cannot expect to see the end of it. . . . Persuasion and social movements.
Landmark essays on rhetoric and the environment.
This class focuses on the rhetorical strategies of environmental discourse. We will survey the history of the environmental movement in the United States, learn how social movements utilize persuasion to accomplish essential functions, examine primary documents advocating conservation and ecology, and read case studies which focus on rhetoric and the environment. You will have the opportunity to refine your analytical and writing abilities by both responding to a classic essay in environmental communication and producing an in-depth essay of rhetorical criticism focused on social movement persuasion. In addition, you will practice public speaking skills by presenting an oral summary of your critical essay to the class.