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.
By force reduced, by words seduced, by love possessed: Gorgias could have melted the heart of any lover.
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading the Encomium of Helen, I couldn't help but laugh. I imagined this scene being played out in a courtroom, and in my mind, I just kept laughing and saying to myself, "This is so much bull." Gorgias makes the argument that Helen was seduced by words--and if we are to consider all arguments--this is a good one. But the bottom line is, Helen made a love connection with somebody else. The "words" may have initially made her do it, but woman does not live by words alone!
ReplyDeleteYour post makes a good point about the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace today; particularly in scientific fields of study. Finding a balance between empathy and idealistic loyalty can be difficult, especially for people whose work preference is lone-wolf but whose workplace requires teamwork. This can be an especially difficult task when one has to balance commitment to a corporate culture or ideal and meeting the needs of staff; such as in middle management.
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