New Books in Political Science
Robert Danisch, "Rhetorical Democracy: How Communication Shapes Political Culture" (Rowman and Littlefield, 2024)
Dec 14, 2024
Robert Danisch, a Professor of Communication Arts at the University of Waterloo, discusses his latest work on how communication shapes political culture. He explores the impact of relationships and trust in democratic engagement, emphasizing the need for cooperation over polarization. Danisch warns of a generational disconnect from democratic values and advocates for revitalizing appreciation for democracy. He also highlights the role of rhetorical structures in fostering dialogue, urging a shift toward inquiry in education to promote critical thinking.
56:42
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The decline in belief in democracy among younger generations highlights a need to actively remind citizens of its benefits and engagement.
- Rhetorical structures and practices play a crucial role in shaping democratic engagement, emphasizing the importance of effective communication channels and relationships.
Deep dives
Current State of American Democracy
The decline of belief in democracy among younger generations is highlighted, with many perceiving no significant advantages over other political systems. The speaker reflects on their experience teaching students who express fears about global instability, indicating a growing disillusionment with democratic ideals. There is an urgent need to remind citizens, particularly the youth, of the benefits of democracy and how to actively engage in rebuilding its advantages. This emphasis on rejuvenating democratic values is positioned as a vital step in fostering a healthier political environment.
