The Uncivil Tongue: Invitational Rhetoric and the Problem of Inequality

Abstract

Invitational rhetoric espouses communication based on the immanent value and self-determination of interlocutors. With regard to theories that posit persuasion as a goal, an invitational model posits the dialogic encounter as ethically superior. We contend that the suitability of the invitational paradigm presupposes conditions of economic, political, and social equality among interlocutors. However, such conditions of actual equality are rare in both political controversy and interpersonal relations. Furthermore, the appeal to civility is a form of gender discipline; thus we advocate theorizing the uncivil tongue.