What are contemporary applications or lessons you could apply from the work of Gorgias in your own life?
Ecomium of Helen Gorgias provides a
rebuttal of the story of Helen stating that her actions were potentially
motivated by three reasons:
1. By force reduced
2. By words seduced
3. By love possessed
This thoughtful extended analysis -
not in length, but as an extension of the existing idea - of a classical and
accepted scenario should be a lesson in critical thinking. This open-mindedness
to all possible scenarios is applicable to any discipline. Working in
biomedical communications it’s important to present the facts and evaluate all
possible conclusions that can be drawn. Often the truth is not what one
expected and being able to see and acknowledge this is deviation from
expectations is important skill.
Gorgias continues that ‘speech is a
powerful lord’ and that the ‘force of persuasion prevails’, making one
contemplate that persuasion could be physical, intellectual or emotional. While
physical persuasion is frowned upon in a professional environment, and intellectual
appeal is the go to form of persuasion, hone skill in tactful emotional appeals
are likely the least acknowledged.
Share at least one useful link about Classical Rhetoric and why it's useful.
Paul
Schollmeier writes in A Classical Rhetoric To Modern Science
That while the speaker and the
audience are well-developed concepts in the rhetoric of science fields, the
speech (or written work) are much less so.
I would have to agree that in my
experience that scientists and physicians have very little training on how to
best use each form of communication available to them for maximal impact.
Applying rhetorical concepts to current communications practices in biomedicine
would surely lead to improved outcomes for all parties involved.
