Bitzer vs. Edbaur Journal 2

Bitzer’s Rhetorical Situation and Edbaurs Rhetorical Ecology differ greatly.  The rhetorical situation is heavily focused on an exigence that calls for action from the audience. It is heavily persuasive and much more constricting than Edbaurs. The Rhetorical Ecology also includes exigence but it isn’t as condensed and focused as Bitzer. It is rhetoric that is influenced by ecological factors which is in flux and always changing. It is also broader, expanded, and looks at all situations and contextual factors.

An example that can be applied to Bitzers Rhetorical Situation are the events that occurred this weekend. The Women’s March that took place in several locations around the world is a perfect example because the exigence, audience, and the call to action are clear. The purpose for the protests come from the women and minorities that have been negatively impacted by Trump’s misogynistic and racists comments that have been broadcasted on the media.  I think Bitzer would categorize the audience as America, the government, and the individuals in America that dismiss Trumps behavior. The call to action is highlighting the urgency for equal rights amongst women, the gay community, and minorities that is missing.

An example that can be applied to Edbaurs Rhetorical Ecology is the Harry Potter phenomenon. It has circulated in multiple versions throughout the years and it’s exigence serves different purposes in each. Harry Potter began as a novel and progressed into theatres for visual entertainment. Shortly after, an interactive, real-life, experience was created and Harry Potter world was developed in Orlando’s Disney World Theme Park.

If Bitzer were to analyze the Harry Potter phenomenon, I think he would dismiss it as having any rhetorical significance because it doesn’t have a particular urgency or a call to action. Bizter didn’t take into consideration that rhetoric wasn’t always focused and structured the way that Edbaur did. The Rhetorical Ecology allows for flexibility and leeway with the rhetorical purpose and it’s structure.

At this point in class, I think both types of rhetoric serve valuable purposes depending on the circumstance and situation. I think Bitzer works well for persuasive arguments and topics that require action. However, I do think that Edbaurs rhetorical stance is much more updated and easier to produce and understand.