Back in Black – En ideologisk tilgang til komparativ retorik

Abstract

This article argues for an approach to comparative rhetoric inspired by the ideological criticism of Edwin Black. Through a summary of the debate concerning methodology in comparative rhetoric the article argues that the aspect of evaluation has been largely absent. The article pushes for a new approach to comparative rhetoric, in which the standards of evaluation serve as broadening understanding between peoples of different cultures. The merits of this approach are displayed through an analysis of a speech by the former leader of the Taleban-movement. Finally, the article addresses how this approach can benefit the field of rhetorical criticism as a whole.