Journal 6 (Dropbox not available on web ct)

1. Bitzer refers to rhetorical situations in many different ways. He stresses that a rhetorical situation does not consist simply of understanding a speech, in depends on understanding the context of the meaning. Thus, no concept is truly comprehended unless the meaning is understood. He also says that meaning is a general term and has nothing to do with a rhetorical situation. Also, a rhetorical situation does not need to occur in a setting where there is a speaker, audience, or a communicative purpose because “philosophical and scientific, occur in such settings.” He also says that a rhetorical situation does not have to do with persuasion, or trying to alter the beliefs of an audience.
2. A “rhetorical situation,” according to Bitzer, always occurs for some reason, it perform some task. Hence, it always produces an action. He also defines its function “as a fitting response to a situation which needs and invites it.” Therefore, “rhetorical situation” is necessary in some situations. Finally he states,”rhetorical situation may be defined as a complex of persons, events, objects, and relations presenting an actual or potential exigence. ..”
3. In many situations, exigence can occur but they are not all elements of rhetorical situations. An exigent is something that is not perfect, but it is marked by some sort of importance. He defines it as “… a defect, an obstacle, something waiting to be done …” An example of exigence when it is rhetorical: a restaurant owner uses spoiled and rotten food. His actions cause health problems to the costumers. His actions can be stopped if someone addresses him.