Rhetoric in Communication Theory Research Paper

Rhetoric in Communication Theory - Research Paper Example Writers and speakers have varying intentions for the message in their communication and, this determines the appropriate rhetoric for use. On the other hand, communication theories are theories that attempt to give an explanation on why people communicate the way they do. Rhetoric and communication theories are two closely related subjects. This paper will therefore analyze the rhetoric in communications theories. There are various communication theories that define the relationship between the different parties involved in communication. The theories also explain why communication takes place in certain ways. Communication theories also explain how effective communication can be achieved by improving the relationship between the speaker and the audience. Cognitive dissonance theory is an important theory in communication. Cognitive Dissonance theory states that dissension experiences are avoidable. According to the theory, people tend to avoid information that conflicts with their b eliefs (Lisa, 1975). Therefore, people will avoid a speaker whose information contradicts their beliefs and knowledge. In most situations, information that opposes the views of the audience is informative information. In addition, information aimed at persuading the audience can also conflict the views of the audience. ... Communication accommodation theory is also an important theory in communication. This theory argues that a change of communication style has direct consequences on motivation. The theory implies that people tend to vary their communication style in order to fit the audience. Although the speaker is an important factor in communication, the audience is of equal importance. Effective communication will therefore, depend on the relationship between the two parties. The rhetoric in accommodation theory aims at creating a supportive environment between the speaker and the audience. The theory argues that speakers tend to adjust their speaking styles in order to accommodate the audience (Miller, 2005). This implies that an effective speaker should have an idea on the communication style that the audience expects. Speakers are able to persuade an audience if they apply a communication style that is acceptable between the two parties. Similarly, a speaker is capable of persuading the audienc e if the communication style used match the expectations of the audience. In most communications, the audience is incapable of determining the communication or their relationships with the speaker. However, the speaker has the ability to alter the communication or their relationship with the audience. Adjusting the communication style to match the audience expectations is a proof of the flexibility that speakers have. According to the accommodation, theory speakers or parties involved in communication often tend to adjust their communication style in order to meet the expectations of the audience (Miller, 2005).. Adjusting the communication style in order to accommodate the expectations of the audience is a communication technique. Speakers apply the