The Art of Deception in the Modern World. The Rhetoric of Influence

In this book, the renowned rhetoric researcher Robin Reams argues that in today’s polarized political climate, we must all pay close attention to the study of rhetoric and think rhetorically. Drawing on a wide range of examples – from the ancient Greek demagogue-destroyer Alcibiades to modern conspiracy theorists like Alex Jones – Reams analyzes the basic rhetorical techniques, shedding light on how politicians, journalists, and bloggers make us believe what they need us to, speak, vote, and act in the ways they desire. Understanding these techniques will help you avoid manipulation by authority figures who do not represent our interests at all. The study of rhetoric, asserts Reams, teaches us not what to think, but how to think, allowing us to understand our own and others' ideological positions in a completely new way.