Something we should think about is the power our rhetorical acts have. Our rhetorical acts define us, affect others, and can contribute to the common good.
When we write or speak, what are we really doing? What impact will that email I wrote after midnight the other night have on its audience?
What about the various situations and locations surrounding our rhetorical acts? Do they define us in different ways? Are there some acts that contribute to the common good, while others don't?
When I'm in "tutor" mode, I'd like to think my actions define me as someone who is educated and helpful. I aim to affect others' moods in positive ways: I want people to "feel better" by the time they're done with me. Those actions may contribute to the common good in a small way.
I guess my point in all of this is to encourage us to think about what our words really do. Our words are a major part of how we get along in the world: We use them to create and communicate meaning. We could never function without them. That's why it's so important to learn how to speak and write effectively. It makes existence in this great big interconnected web much easier.
I'm glad to be part of this world with all of you.
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