Digital Commons @ Butler University

Title

Public Argument as Self-Preservation: A Critique of Argumentation Theory as a Democratic Practice

Authors

Kristen Hoerl, Butler UniversityFollow

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2003

Abstract

The article presents a critical analysis on the argumentation theory of self-preservation as a democratic practice in the U.S. It focuses on public controversy instances following the World Trade Center and the Pentagon attacks on September 11, 2001. The democratic deliberation attempts to equalize power relationships structuring argumentative practice through self-risking argument. It presents the distinction between the public sphere and public controversy to prevent the collapse of the public with news media.

Recommended Citation

Hoerl, K. E. (2003). Public Argument as Self-Preservation: A Critique of Argumentation Theory as a Democratic Practice. Conference Proceedings -- National Communication Association/American Forensic Association (Alta Conference on Argumentation), 1166-172.