Critically explore contemporary rhetorical theories and their analytical applications.

Examines material produced by rhetors commonly considered demagogues and assesses the scholarly discussions of these individuals.

Rhetorical analysis, with particular attention to the effects of technologies and journalistic institutions on public deliberation.

Use of contemporary critical methods to investigate, interpret, and explain rhetorical acts and artifacts.

Examination of rhetorical concepts and practices in various rhetorical traditions, and how they underline the functions of rhetoric in their different historical and cultural contexts.

Exploration of unconventional uses of language including contradiction, negation, story, surprise, gesture, and silence are used in Zen training as resources for transformational change.

Examines the persuasive power of emotion in critical thinking and prudent judgment.

Examine legal rhetoric and how gender, race, class, ability, and nationality constitute the law and subjects before the law.

Examine the nature, features, exigences, and functions of peacemaking rhetoric.

Examine films as rhetorical acts that serve a powerful function in American society.

Examine features, exigences, and functions of different types of rhetorical narratives.

Explore the use of persuasive strategies in an ancient and non-Western culture, that of the Hebrew Bible. Using rhetorical techniques, analyze three types of texts: narratives of interactions between ordinary people and God; interactions between people, God, and authorized prophets; and prayers in prose and poetry.

Examine research on the diverse rhetorical practices of nonhuman animals and its implications for rhetorical theory.

Explore the rhetorical dimensions and tensions between feminism and science, focusing on feminist and scientific inquiry, interventions, and ethics.

Explore the role of communication in constructing disability and challenging ableism.

Examine how the concept of the "public sphere" informs discussions of the generation, negotiation, and control of information, power, and community values.