The Ancient Art of Thinking For Yourself

How rhetoric—the art of persuasion—can help us navigate an age of misinformation, conspiracy theories, and political acrimony
The discipline of rhetoric was the keystone of Western education for over two thousand years. Only recently has its perceived importance faded. 
In this book, renowned rhetorical scholar Robin Reames argues that, in today’s polarized political climate, we should all care deeply about learning rhetoric. Drawing on examples ranging from the destructive ancient Greek demagogue Alcibiades to modern-day conspiracists like Alex Jones, Reames breaks down the major techniques of rhetoric, pulling back the curtain on how politicians, journalists, and “journalists” convince us to believe what we believe—and to talk, vote, and act accordingly. Understanding these techniques helps us avoid being manipulated by authority figures who don’t have our best interests at heart. It also grants us rare insight...