A rhizome for critical rhetorical theory: The para -persona of ecological concern

Curt Allen Gilstrap, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to point up the problems of Humanist foundations and continuing influence on Rhetorical Theory, especially as regards rhetorical approaches to ecological discourse evaluation. The primary reason for this investigation derives from the fact that most contemporary coverage of ecological discourse comes from rhetorical approaches thoroughly burdened with human-focus, rather than discursive approaches sensitive to ecological connection. Assessing the literature of ecological rhetorical studies and a case study of adolescent environmental literature, I propose that a rhizomatic approach to assessing ecological rhetoric is an appropriate and necessary departure from traditional modes of discourse assessment—particularly due to our need to emphasize connection with the world, both symbolically and physically.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Rodriguez, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Rhetoric|Composition|Ecology|Environmental science

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