Richard M. Weaver on the Nature of Rhetoric: An Interpretation

Abstract

Modem philosopher Eliseo Vivas uses the ancient term rhetor to describe the late Richard M. Weaver. Weaver remains, no doubt, one of the most stimulating and controversial rhetorical theorists of our time. From the outset of his career he has provided, as Paul Tillich observes of his first work, philosophical shock–the beginning of wisdom. Weaver as a social critic has sought to clarify the role of rhetoric in improving a declining modem culture. Weaver held two basic orientations that are of prime importance to an understanding of his rhetorical views. First, politically he was a conservative of some note. Secondly, Weaver was a devoted Platonic idealist. Like Aristotle, Weaver perceived a close relationship between dialectic and rhetoric. Weaver's writings on rhetoric emphasize the processes and techniques of invention and the elements of effective style, giving minor place to organization and none to the classical canons of delivery and memory.