The Centre for Research in Reasoning, Argumentation & Rhetoric along with the PhD in Argumentation Studies at the University of Windsor invite you to a talk by
Dr. Khamaiel Al Tamimi, CRRAR fellow
“The Virtuous Audience and Virtuous Consensus: Rethinking Rhetorical Audiences”
ABSTRACT: The ethics of argumentation is a growing field, particularly through the lens of virtue theories of argumentation (Andrew Aberdein, 2007; Daniel Cohen, 2009). However, much focus has remained on the arguer, leaving the ethical responsibilities of the audience underexplored. This paper examines the ethical responsibilities of the audience and develops the concept of the "virtuous audience," which integrates rhetorical understandings with virtue argumentation. In the latter part of the paper, I introduce the concept of 'virtuous consensus,' a rhetorical process of knowledge informed by the cultivation of virtues. Feminist scholars (e.g., Miranda Fricker, 2007) and Black decolonial scholars (e.g., Patricia Hill Collins, 1991) have highlighted the limitations of dominant theories of knowledge, including rhetorical approaches rooted in consensus, for failing to account for epistemic injustice and systemic bias. To address these critiques, I argue that incorporating virtues into rhetorical concepts of knowledge is essential for recognizing and addressing epistemic injustice and bias. As such, cultivating virtues enables audiences to challenge oppressive societal beliefs and give credibility to marginalized voices. Since rhetorical theories define argument success by the quality of the audience, it is essential for the audience to be virtuous to ensure an inclusive and equitable argumentative environment.
January 10, 2025
3:00 p.m.
Chrysler Hall North, 1163
All Welcome
Reception to follow