The Art of Persuasive Communication

Book excerpt: This third edition situates contemporary persuasive practices against the background of the rich history of rhetoric and within the setting of a democratic state. The work is theoretically well-grounded and considerate of the practical dimensions of persuasion - from its broad starting points in an interpersonal setting to its manifestation as mass persuasion or propaganda in the wider political sphere. Contemporary examples, including rhetorical discourses of South African statesmen, are provided to facilitate understanding. Throughout, the author addresses critical issues that are important to communication science scholars and practitioners, as well as those active in related disciplines such as political science, sociology, social psychology and rhetorical studies. In fact, the book should be helpful to potential persuaders and persuadees across the broad spectrum of society as it will give persuadees a better chance to identify persuasion and defend themselves against the unscrupulous.