A Rhetoric of Motives

Published in 1950, 'A Rhetoric of Motives' by Kenneth Burke delves into the intricate world of communication, exploring how rhetoric is not merely a tool for persuasion but a fundamental aspect of human interaction and society.

Burke invites readers to unravel the nuances of motive and identification as the cornerstones of rhetoric, shedding light on how people connect with one another through shared symbols and language.

The book challenges readers to rethink the ways in which we influence and are influenced by others, emphasizing the ethical dimensions of rhetoric and its role in shaping our perceptions and relationships.

Burke's theory of dramatism is central, conceptualizing human behavior as a form of drama and using the dramatistic method, which includes the Pentad: Act, Scene, Agent, Agency, and Purpose, to analyze human interaction.