This week, as I read through chapter 5 in the Rhetoric and Civil textbook, I came across the idea that rhetoric is utilized in text messaging. If that is true, I began thinking, in what other condensed diction can rhetoric also be found. With that in mind, I looked to Twitter.
Personally, I am an avid Twitter user. This social media outlet has become a way for many Americans to speak directly to the public, while presenting their own thoughts and ideas. That being said, politicians, celebrities, and the average person alike, all use Twitter to present rhetoric - whether they realize it or not. Though the sentences are shortened to fit the "140 characters or less" constraints, a coherent thought is presented, a side to an issue is proposed, and a way of convincing the masses is opened up.
People have become citizens of the internet and by "tweeting" one's thoughts, rhetoric is shown. Often, tweets are in response to issues in the world today. This ideal represents "kairos," as Twitter allows for advantageous timing and contributing comments to current issues.
The problem, though, is Twitter is a very, very condensed form of speaking. It can be shorter than a well versed text message, thus rhetoric is limited. It allows for one's opinions to be read, but limits the possibility to expand upon them - the effective argument is weakened. Yet, does that mean rhetoric is not in existence on this website? No. I believe, that the act of putting the idea out there for the world to read, presents rhetoric. Strategically responding and reposting the words of others, allows for a basis of an argument to be established.
Thus Twitter is a rhetoric tool. It's an online debate, as the public is allowed to respond back, something that is encouraged. It allows for ideas to be formed and new thoughts to reach those who don't follow politics or news. The world and its ideas are right at our fingertips.
Yes, Twitter is limited, but it is a growing way to develop an argument.
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