The Persuasive Art of Teaching

I firmly believe that few things in our world were created with harmful intentions. However, I'm not oblivious to the fact that there is often a gap between intent and ultimate use. For example, Orville and Wilbur Wright intended their airplane to be used as a new means of transportation, not a bomb delivery service as it was subsequently used in the war. Or, individual medicines created for the preservation of the body that are now used in harmful combinations and illegal activities. Gorgias said that when skills are used poorly the teachers “aren't the ones who are corrupt, and the art is not to blame…” (pg 41).

The Wright Brother's Airplane

I agree with this quote to a point. While the teacher is not to blame, the teacher has a duty-- a duty to teach and emphasize the good. As the sophist he claims to be, Gorgias of all the people should be using the most convincing and uplifting form of rhetoric; and yet, it was Socrates who was most persuasive. He would note an improper use and then proceed to suggest a correct application. This then emphasized a good use of rhetoric. Elder Bednar also utilized such tactics in his talk. Both men first established their ethos by quoting prominent voices on the subject (read Macey R’s post, she has an awesome “drip” analogy that explains this means of establishing ethos). Once they have in a sense, “proven” themselves knowledgeable, they proceeded to offer guidance and correction tailored for their specific audience. For example, Elder Bednar was speaking at education Week which incorporates a large span of age groups. He took the time to explain what Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube was and their righteous applications in the church. Another good use of rhetoric. Ultimately, “teacher” is not a label that needs to be professed, it should be obvious in the manner that the material is presented. By evaluating the use of rhetoric Socrates and Elder Bednar stand out as true teachers and rhetoricians.