Some Uses of Computers in Rhetoric and Public Address.

The author discusses the impact of the "computer revolution" on the field of rhetoric and public address in terms of the potential applications of computer methods to rhetorical problems. He first discusses the computer as a very fast calculator, giving the example of a study that probably would not have been undertaken if the calculations had had to be done manually. Clevenger then points out the advantages of the computer for information retrieval--especially for tedious, time-consuming projects--and suggests further use of the computer for preparation of concordances. He gives examples of the computer's potential uses for content and stylistic analyses, and he suggests methods whereby computer simulations could be used for rhetorical studies, such as predictions of audience response under given conditions. Finally, Clevenger discusses the computer as a "low-grade creative thinker," whereby the machine might generate a few useful questions or ideas concerning certain rhetorical statements or analyses. (RN)