Presidential Rhetoric

The rhetorical styles of Presidents Clinton and Obama, when communicating across the interface of race, are analyzed using rhetorical theory. Clinton s eight presidential addresses to the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Annual Dinner are studied using the rhetoric of inclusion which embodies the concepts of identification and authority. His rhetorical style is shown to ensure the loyalty of the CBC. Obama s use of the rhetoric of hope reaches out to all of America and successfully circumvents the consideration of his race. The rhetoric of hope embraces the appeals of ethos, logos and pathos, and rhetorical devices that rely on repetition. Six of Obama s speeches - keynote address at the 2004 DNC, Iowa concession speech, race relations speech, acceptance speech, inauguration speech and address to the AMA - are critically analyzed using the rhetoric of hope. The analysis of the two presidents rhetoric illustrates how the challenge of interracial communication can be skillfully handled. The book should be especially useful to professionals in the Communications and Speechwriting fields, or anyone else who may be faced with the challenge of interracial communication.

Autorentext

Sandra Bernard-Bastien, MA: Studied Communication at Florida Atlantic University. Director of Public Affairs & Organizational Development, Broward County Children's Services Council, Florida. Library Advisory Board of Broward County; Board First Call for Help-211; Board Florida Prosperity Partnership; US Census 2010 Cultural/ethnic sub-committee.