A Theory of Literate Action: Literate Action Volume 2

Reviewed by Hannah Lee, Instructor; Web & Technology Coordinator, DePaul University on 8/15/17

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

In the second volume to A Theory of Literate Action, Bazerman posits an expansive understanding of how writing operates between the individual’s psychology and consciousness within society, drawing on authoritative works within the diverse canons of education, linguistics, phenomenology, philosophy, semiotics, and anthropology.

As a newer work of advanced theory in rhetorical and writing studies, this text is not a conventional textbook with study guides and a glossary, but the in-text notes and bibliography provides a rich repository of references in traditional and more contemporary studies in the field.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Being a work supported heavily by years of scholarship within and beyond rhetorical studies, the text presents extensive in-text reference to scholarship.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

Bazerman’s attention to how technology has transformed and changed the ways in which individuals communicate with each other to achieve goals and actions recognizes how writing operates in our social realities.

Clarity rating: 4

Despite the complexity of ideas presented, prose is simple and straightforward. Foundational knowledge of writing and rhetoric is helpful to understanding theory.

Consistency rating: 5

Ideas are carefully maintained and presented in direct reference to their original authors, presenting such authors in conversation with one another and thereby showing the interconnectedness of distinct discourses.

Though Bazerman posits difficult ideas and large bodies of works from a variety of authors, the language throughout the textbook is straightforward and concise, avoiding verbosity and possible linguistic obstacles to accessing complex theory.
Concise headings and structural organization (as evidenced by the table of contents) make for reader-oriented understanding and navigation throughout the text.

Modularity rating: 4

The PDF version of the textbook lends itself to printability and assigning sections as separate readings, but less fluid reading as a whole work.

The ePub version allows for a more portable and comfortable reading experience, including easy navigation to specific locations within the text.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

Clear and informational headings that correspond logically with contents allow for accessibility of complex theory.

Interface rating: 5

Plain text and simple graphics (e.g., boldface and capitalization) provide straightforward reading.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

As expected for a scholar of rhetoric, grammar is precise and rhetorically sound for its audience.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

The presentation of writing as a complex, personal, shared, societal, psychological, and philosophical action that compels further action demonstrates the power and presence of rhetoric in our culture.