Rhetoric & Public Affairs

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Interdisciplinary Insights into Communication and Society

Introduction

Welcome to the Rhetoric & Public Affairs information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Rhetoric & Public Affairs, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1094-8392
PublisherMICHIGAN STATE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2010 to 2023
AbbreviationRHETOR PUBLIC AFF / Rhetor. Public Aff.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1405 SOUTH HARRISON RD, STE 25 MANLY MILES BUILDING, E LANSING, MI 48823-5202

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Rhetoric & Public Affairs' is dedicated to exploring the intricate relationships between rhetoric and public discourse, emphasizing how language shapes and is shaped by social, political, and cultural contexts. Its research often employs interdisciplinary methodologies, bridging rhetoric with history, sociology, and political science.
  1. Rhetoric in Social and Political Contexts:
    The journal focuses on how rhetoric operates within various social and political frameworks, analyzing speeches, texts, and public discourse to uncover underlying power dynamics and societal implications.
  2. Violence and Nonviolence in Rhetoric:
    A significant area of study includes the rhetoric surrounding violence and nonviolence, exploring how these concepts are articulated and contested in public debates and social movements.
  3. Civic Engagement and Public Memory:
    Research often delves into themes of civic engagement, public memory, and historical narratives, examining how collective memories are constructed and contested in the public sphere.
  4. Intersectionality in Rhetoric:
    The journal highlights intersectional approaches to rhetoric, particularly in relation to identity, race, gender, and class, thus contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of how different identities impact rhetorical practices.
  5. Digital Rhetoric and Communication:
    There is a growing emphasis on digital rhetoric, exploring how online platforms shape public discourse and affect civic engagement in contemporary society.
Recent years have seen a notable shift in the themes and topics addressed in 'Rhetoric & Public Affairs', with several emerging areas of focus that reflect current societal concerns and academic interests.
  1. Rhetoric of Violence and Nonviolence:
    A significant trend is the exploration of rhetoric surrounding violence and nonviolence, particularly in the context of social protests and movements, highlighting the impact of language on societal change.
  2. Critical Race and Identity Rhetoric:
    There is an increasing focus on how race and identity shape rhetorical practices, with a growing number of articles addressing issues of race, immigration, and identity politics in public discourse.
  3. Civic Engagement and Activism:
    Emerging themes include civic engagement and activism, particularly in relation to contemporary social movements, indicating a strong interest in the role of rhetoric in fostering public participation and advocacy.
  4. Digital and Online Rhetoric:
    Research on digital rhetoric is gaining traction, exploring how online platforms and social media impact communication strategies and public engagement, reflecting broader societal shifts towards digital interaction.
  5. Environmental Rhetoric:
    The rhetoric surrounding environmental issues is increasingly prevalent, as scholars examine how language shapes public discourse related to climate change, sustainability, and ecological justice.

Declining or Waning

While 'Rhetoric & Public Affairs' continues to evolve, certain themes are becoming less prominent in its recent publications. These waning scopes may reflect shifts in scholarly focus or changing societal issues.
  1. Traditional Rhetorical Criticism:
    There appears to be a decline in articles focused on traditional rhetorical criticism methods, with fewer studies centered on classical rhetorical theories and their applications in modern contexts.
  2. Historical Rhetorical Analysis:
    Research that primarily focuses on historical figures and events in rhetorical studies has seen reduced emphasis, as the journal increasingly prioritizes contemporary issues and current events.
  3. Rhetoric of Science and Technology:
    Themes related to the rhetoric of science and technology are less frequently explored, indicating a possible shift away from examining scientific discourse in favor of more immediate social and political issues.

Similar Journals

POLITICAL STUDIES

Championing High-Quality Political Scholarship
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0032-3217Frequency: 5 issues/year

POLITICAL STUDIES, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, stands as a premier journal in the realm of political science and sociology, with a commendable history that spans over six decades, from 1953 to 2024. Operating out of the United Kingdom, this journal boasts a highly competitive impact factor, categorically recognized within the Q1 quartile in both sociology and political science for 2023. With an outstanding Scopus rank placing it at #56 out of 1,466 journals, positioning it in the 96th percentile, POLITICAL STUDIES is integral for researchers and academics dedicated to exploring contemporary political issues, theoretical paradigms, and empirical research. Although it does not offer open access, the journal is known for disseminating high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that inform debates and foster scholarly dialogue. Its commitment to advancing knowledge in the field makes it a vital resource for students, professionals, and anyone eager to enrich their understanding of political dynamics.

POST-SOVIET AFFAIRS

Analyzing the Shifts in Power and Society Across Post-Soviet Landscapes
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1060-586XFrequency: 6 issues/year

POST-SOVIET AFFAIRS, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to exploring the socio-economic and political transformations of post-Soviet states since its inception in 1992. With a significant focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the journal garners an impressive impact factor, underscoring its vital role in the study of contemporary issues in economics, political science, and sociology, as evidenced by its Q1 ranking in these fields in 2023. Operating from the United Kingdom, the journal champions critical analysis and encourages contributions that enhance understanding of the complex dynamics within post-Soviet societies. Researchers, professionals, and students are welcomed to engage with its rich repository of articles, each offering insights into transitional economies, international relations, and social changes. While the journal is not open access, it remains a pivotal resource for anyone wanting to stay informed on impactful research trends and findings in this vital area of study.

AMERICAN POLITICS RESEARCH

Innovating Insights into Political Phenomena
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1532-673XFrequency: 6 issues/year

AMERICAN POLITICS RESEARCH, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC, is a premier journal dedicated to the rigorous examination of political phenomena in the United States. With an impressive impact factor, the journal consistently ranks in the Q1 category for both Sociology and Political Science disciplines, positioning it among the top tier of academic publications in these fields. Serving a diverse readership of researchers, professionals, and students, it provides a vital platform for the dissemination of innovative research and critical evaluations of contemporary political issues. Since its inception in 1973, and continuing through 2024, it has played a crucial role in advancing the understanding of American politics. The journal's commitment to high-quality research ensures that it remains a central resource for those engaged in the study of the social impacts and dynamics of political systems. The open access options offered further enhance its accessibility, promoting broader engagement with vital research findings.

Southern Communication Journal

Exploring the Depths of Communication Scholarship
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1041-794XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Southern Communication Journal, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a pivotal platform within the field of communication studies. With an ISSN of 1041-794X and an E-ISSN of 1930-3203, this esteemed journal has been contributing to the academic dialogue since 1988 and continues to do so through its committed coverage until 2024. Residing in the United Kingdom, the journal embraces a broad spectrum of topics within communication, providing insights that range from interpersonal communication to media studies. Notably, it is categorized in the Q3 quartile for communication in the 2023 rankings, showcasing its reputable position among peers, particularly with a Scopus ranking that places it at the 42nd percentile within the Social Sciences Communication category. Though it does not currently offer open access, the journal remains a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students interested in deepening their understanding of communication theory and practice, exploring innovative perspectives, and stimulating scholarly exchange.

COLLEGE COMPOSITION AND COMMUNICATION

Elevating Discourse in Composition Studies.
Publisher: NATL COUNCIL TEACHERS ENGLISHISSN: 0010-096XFrequency: 4 issues/year

COLLEGE COMPOSITION AND COMMUNICATION, published by the NATL COUNCIL TEACHERS ENGLISH, stands as a pivotal academic journal in the fields of Education, Linguistics, and Literature. With its ISSN 0010-096X and E-ISSN 1939-9006, the journal has achieved significant recognition, evidenced by its diverse quartile rankings: Q3 in Education, Q2 in Linguistics and Language, and Q1 in Literature and Literary Theory for 2023. It currently enjoys a Scopus ranking of #55 out of 1106 in the domain of Literature and Literary Theory, placing it in the esteemed 95th percentile. This journal serves as a vital forum for scholars, educators, and students, aiming to advance the discourse on composition and communication studies, share innovative pedagogical practices, and critically examine the interrelations between language and literature. Although it is not an open-access journal, its comprehensive insights make it essential for anyone invested in the evolving paradigms of language education and composition theory. With reflective articles extending from 2004 to the present, COLLEGE COMPOSITION AND COMMUNICATION continues to shape and redefine the landscape of academic and educational research.

RHETORICA-A JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF RHETORIC

Bridging Past and Present in Rhetorical Discourse
Publisher: JOHNS HOPKINS UNIV PRESSISSN: 0734-8584Frequency: 4 issues/year

RHETORICA: A Journal of the History of Rhetoric, published by the Johns Hopkins University Press, is a pivotal resource in the fields of linguistics and literary studies. Established in 1983, this esteemed journal facilitates scholarly discourse on the evolution, theory, and practice of rhetoric, making it indispensable for researchers, educators, and students alike. With a notable ISSN of 0734-8584 and an e-ISSN of 1533-8541, it has established a reputable presence in academic circles. Though currently categorized in Q4 of Linguistics and Language, its robust focus on historical analysis situates it in the broader landscape of Arts and Humanities, where it ranks impressively in literature and literary theory (76th percentile). While RHETORICA does not offer open access, it continues to serve as a beacon for those seeking to understand the complexities of rhetorical history, inviting contributions that illuminate its enduring relevance in contemporary discourse.

African Journal of Rhetoric

Fostering Critical Conversations Across Cultures
Publisher: AFRICAN ASSOC RHETORICISSN: 1998-2054Frequency: 1 issue/year

The African Journal of Rhetoric, ISSN 1998-2054, is a leading publication dedicated to the study and advancement of rhetorical theory and practice within the African context. Published by the African Association of Rhetoric, this journal seeks to amplify diverse voices and perspectives, fostering critical dialogue and innovative research in the fields of communication, linguistics, and social sciences. With a commitment to promoting open discourse, the journal provides valuable insights into rhetorical strategies, cultural narratives, and their implications on society, making it an indispensable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal is based in Cape Town, South Africa, an epicenter of cultural and intellectual exchange, and encourages submissions that explore the intersection of rhetoric and contemporary issues. As we embrace the evolving landscape of communication, the African Journal of Rhetoric aims to be a pivotal platform for scholarship that bridges local and global dialogues in the study of rhetoric.

Rhetoric Society Quarterly

Connecting Generations Through Rhetorical Research.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0277-3945Frequency: 5 issues/year

Rhetoric Society Quarterly, ISSN 0277-3945, is a distinguished academic journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, based in the United Kingdom. Since its inception in 1976, the journal has become a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of Communication and Linguistics and Language, showcasing research that examines the complexities of rhetoric across various contexts. Currently enjoying a Q2 ranking in Communication and an impressive Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language, it is recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and commitment to quality. With an H-index reflective of its scholarly influence and reaching across generations of research leading up to 2024, the journal continues to be a crucial resource for researchers, educators, and practitioners. Although it does not currently offer open access options, readers can expect high-quality, impactful articles that contribute significantly to their fields. Explore the rich tradition of rhetorical scholarship and engage with a community dedicated to advancing knowledge and practice within this ever-evolving domain.

PHILOSOPHY AND RHETORIC

Fostering Interdisciplinary Conversations in Rhetoric and Thought
Publisher: PENN STATE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0031-8213Frequency: 4 issues/year

Philosophy and Rhetoric, published by Penn State University Press, serves as a premier interdisciplinary journal at the intersection of philosophical inquiry and rhetorical analysis. With an ISSN of 0031-8213 and an E-ISSN of 1527-2079, this journal has been a vital platform for scholars since its inception, converging critical discussions from 2002 to 2024. Rated in the third quartile of philosophy journals in 2023, it ranks #272 out of 806 in the Scopus Arts and Humanities category, placing it in the 66th percentile among academic publications. By offering rich insights into theoretical frameworks and practical applications of rhetoric in philosophical discourse, Philosophy and Rhetoric is an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to enhance their understanding of rhetorical practices and their implications in contemporary philosophical discussions. Although currently not available as an open-access journal, its subscription model ensures that the quality and rigor of the content remain of the highest standard, supporting the academic community's ongoing pursuit of knowledge.

Rhetoric Review

Exploring the Art of Persuasion in Language and Thought
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0735-0198Frequency: 4 issues/year

Rhetoric Review, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, serves as a vital platform for scholars in the fields of Rhetoric, Linguistics, and Literary Theory. Established in 1982, this esteemed journal presents a blend of theoretical frameworks and empirical studies that advance our understanding of rhetorical practices across diverse contexts. It holds a prestigious Q1 ranking in Literature and Literary Theory and a Q2 ranking in Linguistics and Language as of 2023, reflecting its influential role in shaping contemporary discourse in these disciplines. With an impressive Scopus rank of #85 out of 1106 in Literature and Literary Theory, Rhetoric Review is a go-to resource for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore the intricacies of language and communication. While the journal is not open access, it offers a comprehensive range of articles, reviews, and theoretical discussions that contribute significantly to both academic scholarship and practical applications in rhetoric. The journal’s commitment to publishing pioneering research ensures its relevance in an ever-evolving academic landscape.