When language inspires and when language bamboozles: An analysis and appraisal of Words Like Loaded Pistols: The Power of Rhetoric from the Iron Age to the Information Age by Sam Leith.

  • Published In: Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 2025, v. 123, n. 2. P. 377 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Rehfeldt, Ruth Anne 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the power of rhetoric throughout history, focusing on the book "Words Like Loaded Pistols: The Power of Rhetoric from the Iron Age to the Information Age" by Sam Leith. It explores how rhetoric has been used to inspire social change and influence individuals, tracing its origins to ancient Greece. The text delves into the structural components of rhetoric, such as ethos, logos, and pathos, and how they influence listeners. It also highlights the impact of rhetoric in online communities and the role of cultural contingencies in shaping beliefs and behaviors. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding how rhetoric functions in society and the need for effective communication strategies, especially in addressing complex issues like climate change. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior. 2025/03, Vol. 123, Issue 2, p377
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2025
  • ISSN:0022-5002
  • DOI:10.1002/jeab.4232
  • Accession Number:184140414
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.