One of the problematic features of the "skills discourse" is the view that skills are decontextualized bits of knowledge and disposition. Instead, how skills such as communication are defined and used are shaped by cultural, political, and situational factors. In this article, we integrate theory from communication studies, critical…

Examines the influence of culture on persuasive managerial communication in the People's Republic of China. Finds that the interrelated cultural values of group-centeredness, hierarchy, and "face concern" were reflected most often, followed by political ideology and changing managerial roles. (SR)

Presuming that rhetorical discourse comes into existence as a response to a situation in the same sense that an answer comes into existence in response to a question, or a solution in response to a problem, then Mexico is fertile ground for rhetoric and the study of rhetoric. Mexico is a country under fire. Economic and political problems threaten…

United States President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev have strongly emphasized in several speeches that their ultimate goal is peace between their respective nations. However, this apparent shared goal has not come about, largely because they lack a common understanding of the meaning of peace. Both have stated that they wish…

This collection of abstracts is part of a continuing series providing information on recent doctoral dissertations. The 18 titles deal with a variety of topics, including the following: (1) ways of conceptualizing and evaluating group discussion; (2) participant observations of communication themes in families facing death; (3) perceptions of…

Assesses the efforts of Asian-American activists who, during the l960s and l970s, initiated local movements to raise ethnic consciousness and alter majority attitudes. Examines the implications of their experience for a revised understanding of movement rhetoric. Proposes the refinement of theories on social movements through the addition of a…