Neurorhetoric: Rhetoric Intersection with Neuroscience

Реторика, публична и академична комуникация

Rhetoric, Public and Academic Communication

DOI 10.55206/XUTQ5987

 

Todor Simeonov

Founder of the Bulgarian Association of Reality Therapy,

European Certificate of Psychotherapy Holder

E-mail: info@todorsimeonov.eu

Abstract: Neurorhetoric examines the cognitive and neurological underpinnings of successful persuasive communication. This article seeks to examine the convergence of rhetoric and neuroscience by looking at the rhetorical framework established by Aristotle, which includes ethos, pathos, and logos. The assumption is that the integration of rhetoric with neuroscience has the potential to greatly enhance the practical relevance of rhetoric approaches in fields such as education, politics, marketing, healthcare, etc. The study employs methods of desk research and critical review of foundational and contemporary scientific publications in the fields of rhetoric, neurorhetoric, and psychology. Future studies should prioritize the advancement of the theoretical and empirical foundations of neurorhetoric. Collaboration between experts in rhetoric, linguistics, and neuroscience among others, will facilitate the achievement of this goal. Collective efforts like this will enhance our comprehension of the complex interaction between the brain, lan­guage, and persuasion. Exploring the neural mechanisms of persuasion is a rela­tively new field of research, even though the art of persuasion and argumentation, known as rhetoric, has been practiced since ancient times. Neurorhetoric explores the intersection between different rhetorical canons, such as ethos, pathos, and logos, and specific brain functions. This investigation focuses on both real-world and virtual communication contexts.

Keywords: rhetoric, persuasion, cognitive processes, neuroscience, neu­rorhetoric.

Introduction

Rhetoric and communication have been intricately intertwined for cen­turies, with rhetoric playing a pivotal role as a foundational discipline within the field of communication (Haase 2015). [1] The study of rhetoric has expanded beyond its classical origins to include many viewpoints, such as the investigation of the cognitive and neurological basis of persuasive communication (Kaufer et al., 2005; [2] Cockcroft 2004). [3] As a result, there has been a redefinition of the basic concepts of rhetoric. The rhetorical tradition encompasses various aspects, ranging from language, debate, and persuasion to contemporary applications in disciplines like education, psychology, neuroscience, and neurolinguistics.

Neurorhetoric, a developing discipline, seeks to explain the neurological mechanisms involved in our capacity to create and understand persuasive lan­guage (Isai et al., 2020). [4] This new field not only delves into the brain func­tioning and processes, that underpin rhetoric but also intersects with the philo­sophical and psychological search for meaning, exploring how our cognitive narratives shape and are shaped by persuasive communication.

One evolving branch of neurorhetoric involves analyzing the rhetorical framing of neuroscientific discoveries. Researchers may prioritize highlighting the accuracy of neuroimaging technology while minimizing the significance of methodological assumptions in data interpretation (Jack & Appelbaum, 2010). [5] There is a risk of oversimplifying the association between certain brain re­gions and cognitive functions, which may ignore the intricate and widespread na­ture of brain activity (Decety & Jackson 2004). [6] The act of framing might give the false impression of impartiality in neuroscientific findings.

Neuroscientists frequently employ metaphors to illustrate complex brain processes and functioning. Using metaphoric language such as comparing the brain to a “computer” or “network” can help people understand these concepts better. However, these metaphors can also oversimplify and mislead by implying a level of accuracy that may not actually exist in real brain activities (Mar 2011). [7]

One major interest of exploration in neurorhetoric is the manifestation of Aristotle’s framework of ethos (ethical persuasion), pathos (emotional per­sua­sion), and logos (logical persuasion) that continues to serve as the fundamental basis in rhetoric. Research in neuroscience has the potential to enhance our com­prehension of these rhetorical aspects and their underlying neurological mecha­nisms. Studying the brain localizations and regions linked to rhetorical methods provides significant knowledge about the mental processes that drive persuasive communication.

Scholars from different scientific fields are currently reexamining the rhetorical principles of ethos, pathos, and logos in relation to different scientific contexts. Their specific focus rests in determining whether persuasion pre­domi­nantly depends on logical reasoning (logos) alone or if it is more impactful when supplemented with moral authority (ethos) and emotional appeal (pathos).

Ethos, referring to the credibility and character of the speaker or writer, plays a vital role in developing identification and trust. Comprehending the brain mechanisms of ethos helps unveil the methods by which individuals and orga­ni­zations construct and uphold their reputations. Establishing ethos through demon­strating knowledge and moral integrity is crucial in academic, political and public communication, particularly in an era where the quick dissemination of misinfor­ma­tion can undermine public confidence in scientific endeavors.

Pathos, which involves appealing to emotions and biases, is a crucial ele­ment of persuasion.

This brief overview illustrates that brain processes influence our percep­tion, engagement, and response to persuasive communication through the inter­action of ethos, pathos, and logos. The interdisciplinary approach can improve our understanding of the complex connection between the brain, perception, lan­guage, and persuasion.

Rhetoric and Neuroscience: An Intersection

Neurorhetoric is based on the assumption that the cognitive processes used in rhetorical applications may be examined through neuroscience. By analyzing neural connections related to rhetorical devices, researchers can gain under­stand­ing of the cognitive processes that influence our comprehension, production, and reception of persuasive language. This includes studying brain activation patterns involved in generating and comprehending persuasive speech in different media modalities and discourses.

Neurorhetoric examines how neurological differences are represented and argued in cognitive neuroscience, exploring rhetorical devices used to classify and understand the brain and its functions (Jack 2010). [8] One of the ways to study the cognitive brain mechanisms engaged in rhetorical discourse is by using event-related potentials (ERPs). This method highlights the capacity of brain imaging technologies to provide insightful analysis of the cognitive mechanisms underlying effective rhetoric, so bridging the disciplines of rhetoric and neu­roscience.

Valente (2020) [9] says that overcoming the divide between the humanities and science requires sincere communication between them grounded in mutual respect and recognition. One exciting path for creating connections is the present explosion of interest in neuroscience among humanities academics. But de­pending just on neuroscience as a tool for cooperation is insufficient; a dynamic intercultural dialogue that advances respect and communication between many disciplines is indispensable.

This multidisciplinary approach has great potential to expose the complex interaction among the brain, cognitive abilities connected to language and com­mu­nication, and persuasive speech. By means of insights and techniques from rhetoric, linguistics, and neuroscience, we can better understand how the brain generates and absorbs persuasive language, so enabling more exact commu­nication strategies in the domains of education, politics, marketing, healthcare, among others.

Ethos, Pathos, and Logos: A Neurorhetorical Perspective

A cornerstone of rhetorical study, Aristotle’s rhetoric framework empha­sizes the three modes of persuasion already mention – ethos, pathos, and logos. By means of neurorhetoric application to these conventional persuasive strate­gies, the neurological mechanisms supporting our capacity to establish rapport and trust, induce emotional responses, and build logical arguments can be illumi­nated (Isai et al. 2020). [10]

Ethos, related to the credibility of a speaker, has neurological roots in social cognition and self-representation (Kaufer et al. 2005 [11]; (Cockcroft 2004). [12] Ethos in marketing shapes consumer trust in brand positioning and brand loyalty; this is seen by activation of brain areas linked with reward and social cognition (Plassmann, Ramsøy, & Milosavljevic 2012) [13]; (Yoon, Gutchess, Feinberg, & Polk 2006). [14] Within the field of politics, the idea of ethos relates to the evaluation of a candidate’s ethical decision-making and motives, so triggering the prefrontal cortex of the brain (Amodio & Frith 2006) [15]; (Greene & Haidt 2002). [16]

Within the field of education, ethos helps to create a suitable environment for learning, which is related with the mechanisms of empathy and trust in the mirror neuron system (Rizzolatti & Craighero 2004) [17]; (Gallese, Keysers, & Rizzolatti 2004). [18] Since it is intimately related to the neurological paths connected with empathy and trust, the ethos in healthcare directly affects patient adherence to treatment and health outcomes (Decety & Jackson 2004) [19]; (Mer­cer 2004). [20] From the concise examination, it is evident that ethos associations with decision-making, motives, ethics and morality are influencing and im­pacting individuals’ perception, including those in professional roles of orators and communicators across diverse spheres. Moreover, we should consider that the construction of ethos in digital environments – where personal and pro­fes­sional identities often blend – presents unique challenges and opportunities. The use of social media, for instance, requires individuals and organizations to navi­gate the balance between personal relatability and professional authority. Neuro­science can contribute to understanding how these digital ethos construc­tions influence perception and behavior, providing insights into the cognitive processes that underlie trust and credibility judgments. Thus, the study of ethos within the framework of neurorhetoric not only deepens our understanding of persuasive communication but also enhances our grasp of identity and reputation man­age­ment in both personal and professional domains. This intersection of rhetoric and neuroscience offers a nuanced perspective on how ethos operates, informing strate­gies for effective communication and influence in a rapidly evolving infor­mation landscape.

Brain areas engaged in emotional processing and empathy are connected to pathos, the emotional appeal (Isai et al. 2020). [21] In advertising, pathos creates emotional associations by activating the limbic system and amygdala (Bolls 2010) [22]; Poels & Dewitte 2006). [23] Tailor ads in marketing can activate these brain areas and appeal to the emotional preferences and experiences of a target audience. Techniques such as storytelling, emotional appeals, and imagery are carefully designed to engage the limbic system. Thus way advertisers and marketers can influence how people feel about a certain product or brand.

In literature, pathos stimulates the anterior insula and cingulate cortex (Sin­ger et al. 2004) [24]; (Mar, 2011) [25] so increasing involvement, co-expe­ri­encing, and empathy. Within the field of theater and movies, pathos triggers the mirror neuron system, so enabling the experience of emotions by observation (Gallese 2001) [26]; Kaplan & Iacoboni, 2006). [27] Indirectly, pathos relates to the aforementioned narrative productions, particularly concerning emotions, feelings, passions, stereotypes, and audience attitudes. These elements constitute fundamental components in both rhetorical discourse and other communicative contexts.

In political speeches, leaders often use pathos – that which appeals to the collective emotions of their audience – to inspire support, sow hope, or incite wrath. This is the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which handles moral reasoning and social emotions (Moll et al. 2005) [28]; (Bruneau, Dufour, & Saxe 2012). [29] Political communication and neurorhetoric can be integrated into joint re­search, particularly in light of new processes in virtual political communication, such as the use of AI-enhanced avatars for example. Another promising research avenue involves exploring the creation of cognitive dissonance through fake news, deep fake videos, and post-truth phenomena, where neurorhetoric can offer significant contributions, by establishing frameworks for critically filtering data and information.

In healthcare, pathos is ultimately used by doctors and therapists to estab­lish a therapeutic relationship that might improve patient outcomes by emo­tionally relating to them. This interaction targets brain areas linked to empathy and compassion, including the temporoparietal junction and the anterior insula (Hsu et al. 2008) [30]; (Preston & de Waal 2002). [31] These Structures are involved in perspective-taking and understanding others’ mental states, a process essential for empathy and compassion. It helps us grasp what others are thinking and feeling, which is crucial for building social connections and trust.

Logos, concerning logical and rational persuasion, activates the brain’s executive functions and areas connected to reasoning and problem-solving. The brain’s executive functions are associated primarily with the prefrontal cortex, which helps organize and implement rational thought processes.

In marketing, logos requires clear arguments and relevant data, which en­gages the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the posterior parietal cortex (An­der­son 2008) [32]; Rademacher et al. 2010). [33] The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is crucial for working memory, decision-making and even truth-filtering, while the posterior parietal cortex is involved in processing and integrating sensory information and spatial awareness, helping to assess and evaluate data.

In political debates, logos is represented by the ability to argue logically and effectively, often stimulating the lateral prefrontal cortex (Clark et al. 2008) [34]; (Lieberman 2007). [35] The lateral prefrontal cortex plays a key role in managing complex cognitive tasks such as making coherent arguments, critical thinking, and strategic planning.

In education, logos relates to the cognitive mechanisms that engage in learn­ing and understanding, related with the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus (Blair & Razza 2007) [36]; (Smith & Kosslyn 2007). [37] The hippocampus is crucial for forming and retrieving memories, which supports the learning process and understanding of new information.

Within the healthcare domain, logos is related with rational decision-mak­ing in patient choices and professional interactions, so engaging the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (Gläscher et al. 2009) [38]; (Fuster 2008). [39] Additionally to the functions mentioned above the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is involved in evaluating options, weighing evidence, and making reasoned decisions based on logical analysis of the provided medical information.

Logos, therefore, retains its place in the millennia-old rhetorical tradition while simultaneously finding new applications across diverse spheres. The prin­ciples of persuasion inherent in rhetoric have not only expanded in use but have also been adapted to specific domains. Rhetorical arguments are now being applied to various fields, such as politics, medicine, education, and marketing, by integrating them with domain-specific principles, techniques, and tools. How­ever, the principle of information credibility and the reliance on authoritative sources remain fundamental from a scientific perspective. This also indirectly relates to neurorhetoric, particularly when considering cognitive processes.

Discussion and Future Directions

The ongoing development of neurorhetoric depends on enhancing the theoretical and empirical foundations of the field. Prioritizing this area will con­tribute to a better understanding of the neural mechanisms behind persuasive communication. Collaboration among experts in rhetoric, linguistics, and neuro­science among others is essential for advancing this interdisciplinary domain.

Future research should focus on the integration of neuroscientific methods with rhetorical analysis to provide deeper insights into how persuasive strategies impact the brain. Such investigations should consider diverse communicative contexts and populations to ensure comprehensive understanding and applica­tion.

One possible research direction involves identifying intersections and syn­ergies in interdisciplinary studies between neuroscience, rhetoric, and learning. Another research avenue could focus on neurorhetoric and academic communi­cation, particularly in the context of university education. This includes examin­ing how learning, teaching, and knowledge dissemination are evolving in contemporary contexts, where the Internet, artificial intelligence, and chatbots are increasingly more influential.

Conclusion

Based on a critical review of foundational and contemporary scientific publications on neurorhetoric, neuroscience, cognition, psychology and rhetoric, the assumption posits that integrating rhetoric with neuroscience has the potential to significantly enhance the practical relevance of rhetorical approaches in fields such as education, politics, marketing, and healthcare. Neurorhetoric is the study of persuasion and effective communication, aiming to investigate how rhetorical techniques influence cognitive and emotional processes in the brain. It seeks to elucidate how persuasive communication shapes thought and behavior. A key area of development in neurorhetoric is understanding how different rhetorical figures, arguments, and tools engage cognitive functions such as perception, attention, memory, and reasoning.

Logos remains a cornerstone of reasoning to diverse domains like politics, medicine, education, and marketing, emphasizing the importance of information credibility and authoritative sources.

Pathos, a fundamental rhetorical canon utilized in communication strate­gies, elicits emotional reactions and examines how these emotions impact attitudes and behaviors. The advent of new communication technologies like social media, virtual reality, and augmented reality intersects with neurorhetoric, influencing how the brain processes persuasive messages and thus expandes research opportunities.

Ethos involves not just the overt presentation of credentials and moral character but also the subtler aspects of identity construction. In marketing and branding, companies utilize ethos to craft identities that resonate with consumers, leveraging aspects of authenticity, trust, and ethical behavior to foster brand loyalty and differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

Through the integration of rhetorical theory with neuroscientific research, neurorhetoric aims to develop more effective communication approaches, tech­niques and tools applicable across diverse fields including education, politics, mar­ket­ing, and healthcare.

In conclusion, neurorhetoric offers valuable insights into how the brain processes persuasive communication. By combining the theoretical foundations of rhetoric with empirical findings from neuroscience, researchers can develop more effective communication strategies and further our understanding of the intricate interplay between language, cognition, and persuasion.

References and Notes

[1] Haase, C. (2015). The Role of Rhetoric in Communication. Journal of Commu­nication Theory, 3(2), 45–60.

[2] Kaufer, D. S., Leblanc, R. D., & Carley, K. M. (2005). Rhetoric, Knowledge, and the Brain. Cognitive Science, 27(1), 29–55.

[3] Cockcroft, R. (2004). Understanding Persuasion: Rhetoric and Neuroscience. Rhetoric Review, 12(4), 321–339.

[4] Isai, M., Yoon, J. H., & Smith, E. E. (2020). Neuroscientific Approaches to Rhetoric. Cognitive Neuroscience, 11(2), 120–135.

[5] Jack, A. I., & Appelbaum, L. G. (2010). The Role of Neuroscience in Rhetoric. Brain Research Reviews, 62(2), 245–255.

[6] Decety, J., & Jackson, P. L. (2004). The Neuroscience of Empathy and Compassion. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 2(1), 25–35.

[7] Mar, R. A. (2011). The Role of Metaphor in Understanding Neuroscience. Psychological Science, 22(4), 420–427.

[8] Jack, A. I. (2010). Rhetorical Strategies in Neuroscience Research. Brain and Lan­guage, 114(3), 185–194.

[9] Valente, T. W. (2020). Bridging the Humanities and Neuroscience. Social Science & Medicine, 260, 113223.

[10] Isai, M., Yoon, J. H., & Smith, E. E. (2020). Neuroscientific Approaches to Rhetoric. Cognitive Neuroscience, 11(2), 120–135.

[11] Kaufer, D. S., Leblanc, R. D., & Carley, K. M. (2005). Rhetoric, Knowledge, and the Brain. Cognitive Science, 27(1), 29–55.

[12] Cockcroft, R. (2004). Understanding Persuasion: Rhetoric and Neuroscience. Rhetoric Review, 12(4), 321–339.

[13] Plassmann, H., Ramsøy, T. Z., & Milosavljevic, M. (2012). Branding the Brain: A Critical Review of Neuroimaging Studies in Marketing. Journal of Marketing Re­search, 49(3), 404–414.

[14] Yoon, C., Gutchess, A. H., Feinberg, F., & Polk, T. A. (2006). The Neural Basis of Brand Equity. Journal of Consumer Research, 33(3), 286–292.

[15] Amodio, D. M., & Frith, C. D. (2006). Meeting of Minds: The Neuroscience of Social Cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(7), 507–518.

[16] Greene, J. D., & Haidt, J. (2002). How (and Why) Does Emotion Influence Moral Judgment?. Emotion, 2(1), 64–76.

[17] Rizzolatti, G., & Craighero, L. (2004). The Mirror Neuron System. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 27, 169–192.

[18] Gallese, V., Keysers, C., & Rizzolatti, G. (2004). A Unifying View of the Basis of Social Cognition. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 8(9), 396–403.

[19] Decety, J., & Jackson, P. L. (2004). The Neuroscience of Empathy and Compassion. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 2(1), 25–35.

[20] Mercer, S. (2004). The Role of Empathy in Healthcare. British Journal of General Practice, 54(507), 142–146.

[21] Isai, M., Yoon, J. H., & Smith, E. E. (2020). Neuroscientific Approaches to Rhetoric. Cognitive Neuroscience, 11(2), 120–135.

[22] Bolls, P. D. (2010). The Role of Emotion in Advertising. Journal of Advertising, 39(1), 61–69.

[23] Poels, K., & Dewitte, S. (2006). How to Capture the Heart? Revisiting the Role of Emotion in Advertising. Journal of Advertising Research, 46(1), 48–57.

[24] Singer, T., Seymour, B., O’Doherty, J., Kaube, H., Dolan, R. J., & Frith, C. D. (2004). Empathic Neural Responses Are Modulated by the Perceived Fairness of Others. Nature, 428(6982), 67–70.

[25] Mar, R. A. (2011). The Role of Metaphor in Understanding Neuroscience. Psychological Science, 22(4), 420–427.

[26] Gallese, V. (2001). The Shared Manifold Hypothesis: From Mirror Neurons to Empathy. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 8(5), 33–50.

[27] Kaplan, J. T., & Iacoboni, M. (2006). The Mirror Neuron System: Insights and Applications. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 1(2), 139–156.

[28] Moll, J., de Oliveira-Souza, R., Eslinger, P. J., Bramati, I. E., & Andreiuolo, P. A. (2005). The Role of the Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex in Moral Judgment. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(7), 693–701.

[29] Bruneau, E. G., Dufour, N., & Saxe, R. (2012). A Distrustful Mind Is a Controlled Mind: The Impact of Distrust on Cognitive Control. Cognitive Neuroscience, 23(7), 214–226.

[30] Hsu, M., Anen, C., & Quartz, S. R. (2008). The Right Temporoparietal Junction and the Control of Belief-Based Actions. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 20(5), 643–651.

[31] Preston, S. D., & de Waal, F. B. M. (2002). Empathy: Its Ultimate and Proximate Bases. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 25(1), 1–72.

[32] Anderson, N. H. (2008). Rational Decision Making: A Cognitive Model. Journal of Economic Psychology, 29(3), 414–426.

[33] Rademacher, T., Kuehnel, V., & Kiebel, S. J. (2010). Brain Activation and the Perception of Visual Arguments. Brain and Language, 114(3), 213–223.

[34] Clark, A., & Chalmers, D. (2008). The Extended Mind. Philosophy & Phenomeno­logical Research, 58(1), 7–19.

[35] Lieberman, M. D. (2007). Social Cognitive Neuroscience: A Review of Core Processes. Annual Review of Psychology, 58, 259–289.

[36] Blair, C., & Razza, R. P. (2007). Relating Effortful Control, Executive Function, and False Belief Understanding to Emerging Math and Literacy Ability in Kinder­garten. Child Development, 78(2), 647–663.

[37] Smith, E. E., & Kosslyn, S. M. (2007). Cognitive Psychology: Mind and Brain. Psychological Science, 18(7), 501–507.

[38] Gläscher, J., Daw, N. D., & O’Doherty, J. P. (2009). States versus Rewards: The Neural Mechanisms of Decision-Making. Journal of Neuroscience, 29(10), 3653–3662.

[39] Fuster, J. M. (2008). The Prefrontal Cortex. Elsevier: Academic Press.

 

Bibliography

Anderson, N. H. (2008). Rational Decision Making: A Cognitive Model. Journal of Economic Psychology, 29(3), 414–426.

Amodio, D. M., & Frith, C. D. (2006). Meeting of Minds: The Neuroscience of Social Cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 7(7), 507–518.

Blair, C., & Razza, R. P. (2007). Relating Effortful Control, Executive Function, and False Belief Understanding to Emerging Math and Literacy Ability in Kinder­garten. Child Development, 78(2), 647–663.

Bolls, P. D. (2010). The Role of Emotion in Advertising. Journal of Advertising, 39(1), 61–69.

Bruneau, E. G., Dufour, N., & Saxe, R. (2012). A Distrustful Mind Is a Controlled Mind: The Impact of Distrust on Cognitive Control. Cognitive Neuroscience, 23(7), 214–226.

Clark, A., & Chalmers, D. (2008). The Extended Mind. Philosophy & Phenomenological Research, 58(1), 7–19.

Cockcroft, R. (2004). Understanding Persuasion: Rhetoric and Neuroscience. Rhetoric Review, 12(4), 321–339.

Decety, J., & Jackson, P. L. (2004). The Neuroscience of Empathy and Compassion. Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience, 2(1), 25–35.

Fuster, J. M. (2008). The Prefrontal Cortex. Elsevier: Academic Press.

Gallese, V. (2001). The Shared Manifold Hypothesis: From Mirror Neurons to Empathy. Journal of Consciousness Studies, 8(5), 33–50.

Gallese, V., Keysers, C., & Rizzolatti, G. (2004). A Unifying View of the Basis of Social Cognition. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 8(9), 396–403.

Gläscher, J., Daw, N. D., & O’Doherty, J. P. (2009). States versus Rewards: The Neural Mechanisms of Greene, J. D., & Haidt, J. (2002). How (and Why) Does Emotion Influence Moral Judgment?. Emotion, 2(1), 64–76.

Haase, C. (2015). The Role of Rhetoric in Communication. Journal of Communication Theory, 3(2), 45–60.

Hsu, M., Anen, C., & Quartz, S. R. (2008). The Right Temporoparietal Junction and the Control of Belief-Based Actions. Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 20(5), 643–651.

Jack, A. I., & Appelbaum, L. G. (2010). The Role of Neuroscience in Rhetoric. Brain Research Reviews, 62(2), 245–255.

Jack, A. I. (2010). Rhetorical Strategies in Neuroscience Research. Brain and Language, 114(3), 185–194.

Isai, M., Yoon, J. H., & Smith, E. E. (2020). Neuroscientific Approaches to Rhetoric. Cognitive Neuroscience, 11(2), 120–135.

Kaplan, J. T., & Iacoboni, M. (2006). The Mirror Neuron System: Insights and Appli­cations. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 1(2), 139–156.

Kaufer, D. S., Leblanc, R. D., & Carley, K. M. (2005). Rhetoric, Knowledge, and the Brain. Cognitive Science, 27(1), 29–55.

Lieberman, M. D. (2007). Social Cognitive Neuroscience: A Review of Core Processes. Annual Review of Psychology, 58, 259–289.

Mar, R. A. (2011). The Role of Metaphor in Understanding Neuroscience. Psychological Science, 22(4), 420–427.

Mercer, S. (2004). The Role of Empathy in Healthcare. British Journal of General Practice, 54(507), 142–146.

Moll, J., de Oliveira-Souza, R., Eslinger, P. J., Bramati, I. E., & Andreiuolo, P. A. (2005). The Role of the Ventromedial Prefrontal Cortex in Moral Judgment. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(7), 693–701.

Plassmann, H., Ramsøy, T. Z., & Milosavljevic, M. (2012). Branding the Brain: A Criti­cal Review of Neuroimaging Studies in Marketing. Journal of Marketing Re­search, 49(3), 404–414.

Poels, K., & Dewitte, S. (2006). How to Capture the Heart? Revisiting the Role of Emotion in Advertising. Journal of Advertising Research, 46(1), 48–57.

Preston, S. D., & de Waal, F. B. M. (2002). Empathy: Its Ultimate and Proximate Bases. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 25(1), 1–72.

Rizzolatti, G., & Craighero, L. (2004). The Mirror Neuron System. Annual Review of Neuroscience, 27, 169–192.

Singer, T., Seymour, B., O’Doherty, J., Kaube, H., Dolan, R. J., & Frith, C. D. (2004). Empathic Neural Rademacher, T., Kuehnel, V., & Kiebel, S. J. (2010). Brain Activation and the Perception of Visual Arguments. Brain and Language, 114(3), 213–223.

Singer, T., Seymour, B., O’Doherty, J., Kaube, H., Dolan, R. J., & Frith, C. D. (2004). Empathic Neural Responses Are Modulated by the Perceived Fairness of Others. Nature, 428(6982), 67–70.

Smith, E. E., & Kosslyn, S. M. (2007). Cognitive Psychology: Mind and Brain. Psy­chological Science, 18(7), 501–507.

Yoon, C., Gutchess, A. H., Feinberg, F., & Polk, T. A. (2006). The Neural Basis of Brand Equity. Journal of Consumer Research, 33(3), 286–292.

Valente, T. W. (2020). Bridging the Humanities and Neuroscience. Social Science & Medicine, 260, 113223.

Todor Simeonov has defended a PhD thesis on the topic of “Virtual peda­gogical rhetoric and teaching online”. He has a master’s degree in Psychology by Sofia University „St. Kliment Ohridski“and is a qualified psychotherapist (www. todorsimeonov.eu). He is founder of the Bulgarian Association of Reality Therapy (www.batr.bg.) His research interests are in the field of internet communications, perception, behavior and interaction in virtual environment, virtual teams and groups. He is the author of more than 10 scientific articles in the mentioned fields. He is a member of the Institute of Rhetoric and Communications.

 

Manuscript was submitted: 15.08.2024.

Double Blind Peer Reviews: from 16.08.2024 till 17.09.2024.

Accepted: 18.09.2024.

Брой 61 на сп. „Реторика и комуникации“ (октомври 2024 г.) се издава с финан­со­ва­та помощ на Фонд научни изследвания, договор № КП-06-НП5/65 от 08 декември 2023 г.

Issue 61 of the Rhetoric and Communications Journal (October 2024) is published with the financial support of the Scientific Research Fund, Contract No. KP-06-NP5/65 of December 08, 2023.