The segment on Toulmin was very interesting, because it seemed to resort more back to ancient rhetoric, rather than progress past modern and postmodern writing and literature. He stresses the importance of argumentation, and the ways in which to develop a strong, cohesive argument by means of a logical approach. Toulmin argues that the model for argumentation is complex, and composed of a very structured formula. He focuses more on rationality, rather than the fluid and self expression of modern and post modern writing. While it does relate to the rigid structures of ancient rhetoric, Toulmin makes a point to argue within his writings that practical reasoning rather than complete formality will strengthen an argument.
Foucault stresses the importance of sexuality, and how major social institutions suppress personal and individual identity. Foucalt's approach was rhetoric and writing was in a very philosophical manner. To him, discourse was merely a practice, rather than what the world truly is in reality.
I felt that Toulmin and Foucalt were almost extreme opposites. Whereas Toulmin focused on reality and a rational, logical way of thinking, Foucault believed more in a philosophical way of thinking, with a high emphasis on sexuality and individualism. Foucalt seemed to follow more of a modern and postmodern structure, whereas Toulmin was more comparable to the rigidity of ancient rhetorics.
I also thought that the difference between Foucault and Toulmin was dramatic, even though both fell generated toward philosophy rather than rhetoric. I found Toulmin's model to be far more comprehensive than Foucault's theories. I think that you are definitely correct in pointing out Toulmin's adherence to a logical model, whereas Foucault's perception of discourse was extremely layered through the lenses of sexuality and imprisonment.
ReplyDeleteI felt like this class period really clarified especially the Toulmin argument and the correct structure of a good argument. I especially liked reading about how knowledge was not something concrete, but how it is always changing with the time period.
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