Rhetoric: Harmful or Helpful

The "Art" of reading and writing persuasively is called rhetoric. It may seem a bit odd that fiery rhetoric, we often hear in political debates or on the daily news shows, is very similar to the Greeks and their goal of persuasion. However just because it's old doesn't mean it's good, you may note the major failure in the Greek world ( think Alexander the Great).

Rhetoric hopes to fashion an argument that is persuasive, not always honest. If we tell a story and cover a single perspective, we get a flat image that lacks depth. It is very difficult to make worthy decisions based on this type of information. More over, rhetorical discussions often ignore scientific evidence and speak more deeply to the soul of man. These are discussions of passion.

One may ask if rhetorical arguments are even worth while these days. The answer would be a resounding yes! Just remember to listen to more than one side of an argument. This will add the depth that a single view blurs. Check out Cicero and The Murder Trials. Great examples of a superior orator and rhetorician.

America

The thought occurs to me that we Americans may from time to time forget about our freedoms. We may get caught up in the day to day issues and forget to be thankful for all that is given to us as part of our birthright. Thankfully, we remind each other every year on the 4th of July at least in some small way that we are indeed free. The innovators of democracy, free markets, and liberty have an important responsibility to mankind.

Although we may at times be unpopular, let us never forget the charity and benevolence that our citizens display to the world. We are always ready to send our free people to the center of a danger zone to help those in need. We only need to look as far as Europe, Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan to see images of valor and displays of the courage of America's youth. Don't stop there, look also to Myanmar, India, China, South America and see examples of America's generosity toward their fellow man.

Americans care about people, not skin color, geography or beliefs. While it is true, we would be happy to spread Democracy to the world, it is out of care for others and pride in our system that we do.

Happy Birthday America!