Interrogating American Popular Culture

Rather than relegating the study of rhetoric to the past, and confining it to its traditional analyses of ceremonial, forensic, and political speeches, the author argues that it has much to say to and about contemporary popular culture. Rhetoric enables students to understand how they and their communities are shaped by the economically, culturally, and socially influential products of American popular culture, such as films, television series, and video games. Such knowledge, the author contends, equips students with the media literacy required to make informed decisions when purchasing products, casting a vote, and so on. Some practical advice regarding how to connect rhetorical analyses to American popular culture is provided.