The Influence of Metaphors and Rhetoric in Political Discourse

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Exploring how metaphors shape political thinking, this chapter delves into the strict father and nurturing parent models and their reflection in speeches. It discusses the divisive rhetoric in polarized times, highlighting extreme predictions and the call for self-reflection. The chapter also touches on narratives, conspiracy theories, and logical reasoning, emphasizing the impact of language on beliefs and arguments.

Robin Reames breaks down the major techniques of rhetoric, pulling back the curtain on how politicians, journalists, and “journalists” convince us to believe what we believe—and to talk, vote, and act accordingly.

Understanding these techniques helps us avoid being manipulated by authority figures who don’t have our best interests at heart. It also grants us rare insight into the values that shape our own beliefs.

Reames and Shermer discuss: rhetoric vs. facts (rhetorical truths vs. empirical truths) • the point of reason (to understand reality or to persuade?) • Canons of rhetoric: invention, arrangement, style, memory, delivery • bullshitters vs. liars • induction and deduction • rhetorical, ideological, and metaphorical thinking • how to debate contentious issues

Robin Reames is associate professor of English at the University of Illinois at Chicago, specializing in rhetorical theory and the history of ideas. Her new book is The Ancient Art of Thinking for Yourself: The Power of Rhetoric in Polarized Times.

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