Reflective Post 2

           Ratcliff builds on Burkes theory of identification by pushing the importance of understanding different cultures. Burkes theory focuses on identification, by "identifying your ways with his". In the reading, Ratcliff Rhetorical Listening it states, "If we recognize not just the claims but the historically-grounded cultural logics enveloping other people's claims, we may still disagree with the claims, but we may better understand the personal and cultural assumptions (dare I say, values and beliefs) that guide other people's logics." This statement feeds off Burkes theory of identification. It encourages the rhetorician to be open to their differences and identify your ways with that person to gather a better understanding of the person.

When you are open to someone else differences and take the time to listen you are able to build arguments that are very effective in bringing differences together. She also builds on the understanding of cultures. Burke describes the Terministic Screens as a way we perceive the world. Coming from different backgrounds people can perceive the world very differently. For example during the days of segregation, a white American seen the world completely different than a black American. She describes a specific rhetorical strategy known as Code of Cross Culture Conduct. This is used for fostering cross culture communications. This is so important to gain a better understanding on differences in gender and ethnicity.

Burke and Ratcliff form of rhetoric is very important in today's society especially in a country that is considered a big melting pot. We are surrounded by different cultures and beliefs and having that open mind is very important in rhetoric. Allowing yourself to listen and learn about a person and be open minded to their differences.