This week we covered the topic of Invitational Rhetoric. Essentially, what this theory is is a unique way to look at the conversation surrounding rhetoric and the patriarcal emphasis found around rhetoric. The proprietors of this theory noticed that so many theories and discussions about rhetoric were all skewered in a patriarchal way, and thus ignore several facets of the concept of Rhetoric. At one point in the article Beyond Persuaion: A proposal for an Invitational Rhetoric the authors write “embedded in efforts to change others is a desire for control and domination for the act of changing another establishes the power of the change agent over the other”(Foss, Griffin, 3). Essentially the rhetoric theories before this one said that people navigate all social interactions with the goal of changing someone else’s opinion and thus gaining social dominance (if only slightly) over the other person. While I summarized this concept very minimally the idea is simple, through changing someone’s mind you win dominance. . It is within the boundary of power and persuasion that almost all rhetorical theories found themselves following, however that changed with the introduction of Invitational Rhetoric.
Invitational Rhetoric is the response to the patriarcal theories presented prior to this theories new development. Essentially this theory dictates that there is another route. Instead of having discussions to change someone’s choices and opinions people can converse without judgment. Where other theories dictated that social interactions were about persuasion and status this theory states that conversation is about being conversational and educating. At one point in the article the author says “Invitational rhetoric is an invitation to understanding as a means to create a relationship rooted in equality, immanent value, and self determination. Invitational rhetoric constitues an invitation to the audience to enter the rhetor’s world and to see it as the rhetoric does” (Foss, Griffin, 5). Essentially, this theory is a welcoming safe place to discuss new ideas, new concepts, and different opinions. The concept of social status doesn’t enter into the equation. Instead people share and give what they want without fear of large consequences. This feminist based theory changed the conversation of rhetoric quiet literally.
Hey Kellyn, I wrote my blog post on invitational rhetoric as well. I wanted to respond because I chose to write about the second article that criticized the idea of Invitational Rhetoric. From reading both I agree and disagree with parts of each. For example, I really liked how you brought up the fact that people can converse without judgement. However I somewhat disagree with your second statement. You stated that the authors claimed invitational rhetoric puts everyone on an equal playing field. I would argue that there are outside factors like social and economic positions that could affect this. Anyways, great analysis, would love to hear if you agree with my statement or think differently.
ReplyDeleteHi Kellyn, I also wrote my blog post on invitational rhetoric. I really liked how you brought up invitational rhetoric is different then the other rhetoric theories because it doesn't involve with trying to change someone's opinion and gaining that dominance over the conversation. But I will say after thinking about invitational theory for a bit, I know that it is meant for open discussions and allowing everyone to say their thoughts but I think there still will be judgment surrounding that conversation because not everyone will agree and I think that would still make some people uncomfortable to speak. I think the discussion can only be as inviting as the people make it. I wonder if you agree or disagree with my thoughts.
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