Blog Post 4

Let’s place our reading of Burke in conversation with Ratcliffe’s theory of rhetorical listening. To what extent does Ratcliffe build on or respond to Burke’s theory of identification?


        Ratcliffe’s theory of rhetorical listening and Burkes theory of identification both involve an individuals personal identification. Burke defines rhetoric as identifications as we can share identification patterns through shared experiences. Ratcliffe applies this belief system into real world situations to show how they parallel one another. Ratcliffe also speaks on biases within the rhetorical community and how women and people of color are virtually ignored. Race and Gender issues have been prevalent for thousands of years. People have biases that influence their rhetorical approaches and behaviorisms whether an individual is aware of them or not. Ratcliffe speaks of these biases and how they have shaped our society.