Everyday Rhetoric: Shaping Perceptions, Behaviors, and Interactions

This innovative textbook redefines the study of rhetoric by moving beyond traditional teachings of argument structure and logical fallacies to explore the rich tapestry of persuasive messages embedded in everyday life.

From political speeches and social media memes to the design of public spaces, this book equips students with the tools to critically analyze and respond to the various forms of rhetoric they encounter daily. It enables readers to critically question what various messages intend for us to think or do. The book not only highlights the importance of rhetorical awareness but also prepares students to face real-world communication challenges, making them more discerning consumers and producers of rhetorical messages. Each chapter features real-world examples, reflection prompts, and practical tools to help readers become more observant, purposeful, and ethically aware communicators.

Fostering a deeper understanding of the art of persuasion and its pervasive influence on our thoughts and actions, this text serves as an essential resource for undergraduate students of communication, rhetoric, persuasion and social influence. It will also be of interest to students across various disciplines who are actively engaged in or preparing for workplace roles that require sophisticated communication skills.

Tammy Rice-Bailey is a Professor in the Humanities, Social Science and Communication department at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, USA. She is also the co-author of Interpersonal Skills for Group Collaboration (Routledge, 2023).

Kimberly S. Baker is an Instructor in the Humanities, Social Science and Communication department at the Milwaukee School of Engineering, USA.