Final answer:
The field of Argumentation/Persuasion studies the art of convincing and influencing others, with roots in ancient Greek rhetoric and significant implications in fields such as law and psychology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding the Field of Argumentation/Persuasion
The field of Argumentation/Persuasion studies the art of convincing and influencing others. This area of inquiry delves into how language can be used to motivate action and facilitate understanding. Beginning with the ancient Greeks, the study of rhetoric has played a significant role in shaping persuasive communication. Aristotle defined rhetoric as the ability to recognize and use various means of persuasion such as ethos, logos, pathos, and kairos in writing and speaking effectively. The impact of rhetoric is also critical in legal professions, teaching how to formulate arguments to sway judges, juries, or opposing parties.
The history of this field is rooted in ancient Greece, where philosophers like Socrates and Aristotle laid the groundwork for understanding persuasive techniques. Over time, these concepts have been central to not only Greek culture but also the development of effective communication in a variety of contexts, such as education, politics, and law. Moreover, persuasion is a heavily researched topic in social psychology, exemplified by studies such as the Yale attitude change approach.