Masters in Rhetoric & Politics

This very short survey has been designed to gather opinion on the prospect of a Masters programme in Rhetoric and Politics that I am thinking of organizing at Goldsmiths, University of London. Whilst there is, as yet, no fixed model of what this might look like, here is the broad plan.

The purpose of the MA would be to provide a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of speech and argument as practices that are central to communicative performance and its interpretation in public life. This would involve learning about the central categories of rhetorical knowledge since classical times and the theoretical innovations that have made rhetoric into a powerful method to instruct and comprehend public communication. In addition, the programme will explore distinct domains of public rhetoric where the acquisition of the skills of speech and argument are central. Students will be further invited to learn about key aspects of national and/or international politics with a view to undertaking a final piece of research to demonstrate their understanding of the political application of rhetorical knowledge.

The MA would consist of three basic components: (1) two core modules (30 credits each) on the theory and practice of rhetoric: one module specifically on theories - from the ancient Greeks through to the present - and the other on distinctive domains of rhetorical practice, such as law, democratic chambers, diplomacy, media and so forth.

(2) In addition, students would take another 60 credits of Politics modules from our options in international politics. Finally (3) a final dissertation of 10 thousand words exploring and applying rhetoric categories in relation to the analysis of politics, broadly understood (a theme to be chosen by the student and her/his supervisor)

What I need to know is how interesting this broad framework is and what might make it more appealing or useful to anyone prepared to enroll on the programme.

Many thanks for your help. Press 'Done' when you are finished. This is private information and your comments will not be publicized. If you want to pass on your views to me directly, email James Martin at j.martin@gold.ac.uk.

Goldsmiths, University of London