The Art of Persuasion

Course NameThe Art of Persuasion
Course CodeCOM252
DescriptionThe Art of Persuasion critically investigates communication techniques which create and meaning and are used to influence beliefs and actions, and how rhetorical techniques are employed to maintain social groups, mediate power and affect social and political change as well as cultural and economic practices. Rhetorical criticism investigates and explains written and spoken language, as well as visual images and symbolic acts and how these shape individual identities and society. The course investigates theories and practical applications of discourse and rhetorical analysis, semiotics and cognitive linguistic and sociolinguistic theories. It examines rhetoric as a historical phenomenon and as a modern practical reality and guides students to understand and ethically and successfully employ rhetorical techniques in personal, professional and political spheres.
Learning OutcomesUpon completion of this course, students will have:
– Understood the history and meaning of classical rhetoric and discourse analysis;
– Understood the history and meaning of critical approaches to rhetoric and discourse analysis;
– Become familiar with significant historical speeches and speakers;
– Applied diverse rhetoric and discourse analysis approaches to diverse case studies including both verbal and visual signs;
– Become familiar with key readings in the fields of rhetoric and discourse analysis;
– Explored and questioned the positive and negative implications and effects of rhetoric on individuals and society;
– Collected and evaluated data and conducted a rhetorical analysis first-hand;
– Presented a research report which examines and explains a case study;
– Improved their ability to use language effectively and persuasively.
SchoolSchool of Humanities & Social Sciences
LevelBachelor
Number of credits (US / ECTS)3 US / 6 ECTS