Thinking critically about terrorism

By Donna Taketa
The Collegian

A course titled, “The Rhetoric of Terrorism,” may sound too scholarly for some students, however several communication, political science, and history students have already enrolled.

“It’s a provocative name for a college course,” said graduate student Bradley Adame, who took the class when it began in the spring of 2004. Intrigued by the title and familiar with the instructor, Adame signed on.

The course, which is designed to examine how language affects public perceptions of terrorism, is offered on a trial basis. Instructor Kevin Ayotte of the communication department introduced the course and hopes to make it a permanent offering.

“Terrorism is a significant issue and will continue to be a significant issue,” Ayotte said. “I hope students take the opportunity to think critically about terrorism, not just getting information from the news— that’s essentially what the class is designed to do.”

Through the class Ayotte wants to explore, “how the way we talk about terrorism shapes the way we understand terrorism.”

Reviewing the use of language in current and post Sept. 11 political speeches and media articles are some of aspects of the class. The format requires class discussion.

“Topics were not fed to students, but explored through dialogue,” Adame said.

Terrorism can be perceived as highly political, however Ayotte clarifies that the class is, “not designed to criticize the administration. It’s not a propaganda tool.”

Additionally, Ayotte thinks that sometimes the word “rhetoric” has a negative connotation.

“Rhetoric isn’t about lying or deceiving people,” Ayotte said. “It’s any type of discourse used to persuade audiences.”

Ayotte has taught at Fresno State for four years and has been encouraged by the number of students interested in the class. The subject also aligns with his own research.

Adame recommends the course pointing out that, “the topics and the course will be relevant for as long as there is global conflict.”