We created this blog because we share an interest in the rhetorics of political communication. We're interested in analysing how and why an act of communication can be considered persuasive, through the assessment of the language and argumentation chosen by the communicator. We also share an interest in the strategy of political communication. This is the broader context in which political actors define their objectives and target groups, hone a message, select the most appropriate channels for disseminating that message, and evaluate how effective their activities were.
Analysis of persuasive, influential communication is about more than studying the choice of language. When analysing modern political communication, it is absolutely essential to interpret the texts produced by political actors within the context of how they are produced and consumed. Political communication is not just the practice of writing and delivering a speech or press release; it is part of a connected chain of activities which begins with strategic planning, is expressed through mediating industries and technologies, and ends with reception by associated groups and individuals. It involves organisations, networks, different media, and different publics - as well as texts.
Over the coming weeks, months and hopefully years, this blog will provide articles and think-pieces on political rhetorics from this broad perspective. We will explore everything from basic rhetorics terminology to PR and branding strategies; all the while linking across disciplines to show how analysis benefits from different perspectives. But we need your help.
You can contribute to this blog by 1) signing up for updates at the bottom of the main page; 2) commenting on articles in Swedish or English; 3) making suggestions for topics for us to write about; and 4) sharing links with your friends. We hope you find reading and contributing to the site as stimulating as we do.
Fredrik Söderquist
James Pamment
