E-Book Overview
In the first book to systematically deal with Daoism (Taoism) from a rhetorical perspective, author Steven C. Combs advances the idea that the works of Daoist (Taoist) sages Laozi (Lao Tzu), Zhuangzi (Chuang Tzu), and Sunzi (Sun Tzu) can be fused into a coherent rhetorical genre, which can then form a methodology for rhetorical criticism. This notion of Daoist rhetoric enables critics to examine discourse from new vantage points with novel processes and concepts that honor the creativity and complexity of human communication. Combs also critically examines four contemporary films—The Tao of Steve, A Bug’s Life, Antz, and Shrek—to amplify rhetorical Daoism, to indicate clear differences between Western and Daoist values, and to offer fresh perspectives on individuals and social action. The book argues that Daoism provides a lens for viewing limitations of current Western rhetorical theorizing, positioning Daoist rhetoric as a potent critical perspective in the contemporary, postmodern world.
E-Book Content
The Dao of Rhetoric
SUNY Series in Communication Studies Dudley D. Cahn, editor
The Dao of Rhetoric
Steven C. Combs
STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK PRESS
Published by State University of New York Press, Albany © 2005 State University of New York All rights reserved Cover art by Robert Burchfield, Loyola Marymount University Printed in the United States of America No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. No part of this book may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means including electronic, electrostatic, magnetic tape, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission in writing of the publisher. For information, address State University of New York Press, 90 State Street, Suite 700, Albany, NY 12207 Production by Christine L. Hamel Marketing by Michael Campochiaro Library of Congress Cataloging in Publication Data Combs, Steven C., 1957– The Dao of rhetoric / Steven C. Combs. p. cm. — (SUNY series in communication studies) Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN 0-7914-6281-1 (alk. paper) 1. Rhetoric. 2. Rhetoric—China. 3. Taoism. 4. Motion pictures—Moral and ethical aspects. I. Title. II. Series. PN175.C53 2005 808’.00951—dc22 2004052137 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
To my wife, Kerry Ann Causey, for the balance and harmony you bring to my life.
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Contents
Acknowledgments
ix
Introduction: Rhetoric East and West 1. Culture, Text, and Context
1
9
2. Laozi and the Natural Way of Rhetoric
23
3. Zhuangzi and the Rhetoric of Evocation 4. Sunzi and the Rhetoric of Parsimony 5. Daoist Rhetorical Criticism
37 53
73
6. Is The Tao of Steve Really “The Way”?
87
7. Values East and West in Antz and A Bug’s Life 8. Shrek as the Daoist Hero 9. The Future of the Past Notes
151
References Index
163
155
115 137
101
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Acknowledgments
This project is the result of the generous support of the universe, without whose opportunities, none of this would have been possible. I’d like to foreground and thank those who teach me rhetorical criticism—especially Karlyn, Walt, and Randy; those who teach me the Dao—especially Robin and Jeff; and those who teach me what’s most important in life—especially Kerry, Ryan, Hayley, Cody, and Mom. I have been fortunate to receive tremendous enrichment from Loyola Marymount University, whose support includes research grants, release time from teaching, and funding for research assistants. My colleagues at LMU have been incredibly generous with their time and ideas—tha