Burke’s theory of identification is based on the idea that in a rhetorical situation, the speaker and audience try to find commonalities between each other by recognizing when they have a shared set of values, histories, or experiences, identity., Burke points out that his theory identification also gives rise to divisiveness; in the same way our commonalities can work to unite us, our differences divide us.
Ratcliffe does not seem to fully refute Burke’s claims, but she does reject the dichotomy of identification and division that he has established. Ratcliffe’s theory of rhetorical listening offers us a third alternative—one in which our differences, not just our similarities, bring us together, understanding. She explains that this understating is not limited to the rhetor’s intent in saying something or the potentially self-serving intent of the audience who’s receiving the message. The example she provides from the movie An Imitation of Life shows us why this sort of understanding is necessary. In it, the character of Lora Meredith is completely unaware of her houseworker’s life outside of the service she provided her, the thing they had in common. This form of understating involves a lot of self-reflection and an openness to learn from those we consider “other”.
Ratcliffe’s theory resonates in a country as multi-cultural and with a history as controversial as the United States. As Ratcliffe rightfully points out, we must depend on rhetorical listening to guide our politics and ethics if the goal is peaceful coexistence, tolerance and justice.
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