Decoding Scientific Controversies with Rhetoric

Sierra College Insights presents UNR English Professor Dr. Lyndah Walsh on March 10.

While debates over vaccination programs, genetic modification, and other hot topics may seem impossibly complex, they actually follow some predictable rhetorical patterns. Understanding these patterns helps us become better deliberators in discussions over science policy.

Returning for a second year to Sierra College Insights, Dr. Walsh will introduce basic but powerful principles of argumentation theory — chiefly Toulmin argument and stasis doctrine — that will prepare participants to understand and debate science policy more effectively as well as locate common ground with presumed opponents on key issues.

Sierra College Insights is a community program held on the Sierra College, Tahoe-Truckee campus located at 11001 College Trail Road in Truckee.

The program, including refreshments, is offered at no cost. Starbucks offers complimentary refreshments from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and the discussions take place from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Space is limited and reservations are highly recommended.

Upcoming sessions: Darwin’s Galapagos, April 21; Raising the Wild, May 12.

Reservations can be made online at www.sierracollege.ticketleap.com.