This course combines the theoretical and historical study of rhetoric with a survey of recent empirical work on political persuasion. We will address such questions as: What appeals are most effective at changing opinions? Do politicians lead or follow public opinion? What qualities make speakers trustworthy? What makes rhetoric demagogic or manipulative? When is uncivil or disruptive speech warranted? Students will be equipped to better understand persuasion from both normative and social scientific perspectives. (Theory)