How To Write A Rhetorical Analysis In Chapter 6

In chapters 4-6 Nichols continues the educational journey of seeking masterful listening skills. As each chapter unfolds, it is easy to discern the complexity involved in not just listening, but listening well. I noticed three major themes throughout these chapters. In chapter four, selflessness is the major topic of discussion and how crucial it is to “suspend your own agenda” (Nichols, 2009, p. 77). In chapter five, Nichols begins speaking about differentiation of self and also how a person’s past history directly influences future dialogue. Chapter six connects the previous two chapters together by covering the topic of emotional reactivity. Intentional or otherwise, these three chapters could just as very well be included in a book
However, if a person has an under-developed differentiation of self, the opposite is true. The most likely response will be “reacting emotionally to what other people say” (Nichols, 2009, p. 117); consequently, turning the conversation into an argument. And since “the worst thing about reactivity is that it’s contagious” (p. 118) if the other conversation participant likewise has an under-developed differentiation of self what ensues can most likely be compared to the carnage seen at the Roman Coliseum in the first
Our society today hands out participation trophies and ribbons to every member of the team. Whether they actively contributed or not and whether or not the team won or lost. Losing is a fact of life, but that does not mean that it destroys character. On the contrary, it builds character. The same can be said for listening. Placing someone else’s problems before your own is a sign of gentle humility. It is a display of admiration and respect for another human being. You are literally saying to them that they matter. That what they have to say is so important that you are willing to completely disregard everything else in your life, at least temporarily, and listen to