The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast Ep. 247: Aristotle on Rhetoric and Emotions (Part One)
Jul 6, 2020
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Episode notes
Pick A Readable Translation First
- Readable translations matter: prefer more fluent translations like Joe Sachs for clarity.
- Use introductions (e.g., George Kennedy) for context when tackling dense Aristotle texts.
Threefold Persuasive Appeals
- Emotions, reasoning, and the speaker's character form distinct persuasive appeals in Aristotle's model.
- Emotions might legitimately contribute to justification, not only manipulation.
Rhetoric As A Legitimate Art
- Aristotle treats rhetoric as a legitimate art used to persuade in courts, politics, and public speech.
- He argues persuasion can be morally neutral and used for good when allied with truth.