The ethics of rhetoric

Key themes

The Ethical Nature of Rhetoric

Weaver's central thesis is that rhetoric is never neutral; it is always 'sermonic,' implicitly or explicitly advocating for a particular worldview and set of values. He argues that every persuasive act stems from a speaker's ultimate vision of the good, making rhetoric inherently an ethical undertaking that demands moral responsibility from the rhetor.

The Decline of Western Thought and the Erosion of Truth

Weaver argues that the modern world has largely abandoned a commitment to transcendent truths and objective reality, leading to a relativistic intellectual climate. This decline, he contends, has severely impacted rhetoric, transforming it from a pursuit of truth into a mere instrument of persuasion, often devoid of ethical grounding. He traces this back to nominalism and the abandonment of the medieval scholastic tradition.

The Power and Responsibility of Language

Weaver views language as far more than a neutral medium; it is a powerful force that shapes thought, values, and reality itself. He emphasizes the profound responsibility that comes with using language, as it can either lead audiences towards truth and understanding or manipulate them through sophistry and emotional appeals. The choice of words and rhetorical strategies carries significant moral weight.

Worth discussing

Weaver states, 'All rhetoric is sermonic.' What does he mean by this, and how does this idea challenge common perceptions of rhetoric as a neutral tool?