STS 2263W The Rhetoric of Science

3 Credits

This course is an introduction to the history, theory, practice, and implications of rhetoric - the art and craft of persuasion. Specifically, this class focuses on the ways that scientists use various methods of persuasion as they construct scientific knowledge. By first examining the nature of science and rhetoric, we will then examine texts written by scientists and use rhetorical theory to analyze those texts. We will look at the professional scientific research articles and other genres of scientific writing. Finally, we’ll investigate the way that rhetoric plays a role in the everyday life of scientists. Throughout the class, we will wrestle with questions, such as: How is science rhetorical?; What can rhetorical analysis tell us about the ways that scientists use persuasion?; and, How might rhetorical analysis limit our understanding of science?

Prerequisite(s): EW 1023 or EN 1233W or EN 1203H .
Note: Satisfies a Humanities and Social Sciences Elective.