Date of Award
1-2010
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Legacy Department
Professional Communication
Committee Chair/Advisor
Haynes, Cynthia
Committee Member
Holmevik , Jan
Committee Member
Ding , Huiling
Abstract
Martial arts, which incorporate Eastern philosophical and cultural perspectives, enhance rhetorical skill along with self-defense mastery. Furthermore, Western styled rhetorical movements within workplaces can benefit from the integration of Eastern self-cultivation approaches, specifically Taoism and Zen. Eastern martial arts training grounded in Zen and Taoist precepts, such as the interdependence of seeming opposites, the persuasive power of restraint and humility, and the benefit of applying pathos as a primary rhetorical movement, increases self-knowledge. Through dedicated practice grounded in mutual respect and an openness to challenge physical and mental limitations, the life artist emerges by simultaneously obtaining self-defense ability and virtuous wisdom. Re-energized with persuasive energies that transcend conventional Western communicative means, the artist lessens their need to fight, argue, or dominate. Additionally, by cultivating traits such as patience, compassion, steadiness and self-control during group martial arts classes, the student continues to apply the lessons of the training studio to daily life, armed with a clear and focused mind and equipped to overcome communication challenges in the workplace peacefully.
Recommended Citation
Cantey, Kevin, "Eastern Martial Arts and the Cultivation of Persuasive Power" (2010). All Theses. 922.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_theses/922