A Rhetorical Analysis Chapter 4

The principle that was conveyed in Chapter 4 of Part 2 is to be a good listener and encourage others to talk about themselves. In order to express this principle, Carnegie uses an example between a young child and his mother; the boy stated, “...I really know you love me because whenever I want to talk to you about something you stop whatever you are doing and listen to me (83).” While reading this, I felt a connection to it in many ways; a time where I was not properly listening to somebody or giving them my full attention caused them to completely stop mid-sentence and refuse to continue the story. I refuse to let this happen again and from what Carnegie has showed me it is extremely important to show people that you care---one major way
Carnegie stated, “If you argue and rankle and contradict, you may achieve a victory sometimes; but it will be an empty victory because you will never get your opponent’s good will (112).” This quote helped me acknowledge that it does not help the argument to continue to bicker with the other person back-and-forth. A time where I could have used this advice was when arguing with my friend about a stupid decision she made. Instead of listening to what she had to say and seeing it from her point-of-view, I continued to talk back to her and try to prove that I was the one who was right. I have now realized that if I were to just listen to what she had to say and understand her view on the situation the argument would have been resolved much easier. I, now, practice this principle when I get into arguments. For example, my sister and I fight a lot; however, I just let her talk and I do not entertain her. I noticed that the argument resolves itself and there is less bickering when I just let her say what she wants. I hope to continue using this principle as I face more arguments in the
This principle states that if you are wrong, admit it quickly and emphatically. Carnegie emphasizes this principle with the quote, “Any fool can try to defend his or her mistakes---and most fools do---but it raises one above the herd and gives one a feeling of nobility and exultation to admit one’s mistakes.” Most people believe it isn’t good to admit when you are wrong; however, it is much more beneficial than trying to prove you are right. I have gone against this principle multiple times in the past, especially in situations with my siblings. Siblings argue over being right or wrong more than they should; however, it takes the bigger and mature sibling to admit that they are wrong. I wish I was the bigger and mature sibling years ago. After reading this chapter of the book, I have been letting the other person win by admitting that I am wrong. It has made things much easier and taught me that it is more important to admit that you are wrong than try to prove how it makes you right. A specific situation that I can use this in is with my freshmen. Freshmen love to argue and try to prove that I am wrong. Being able to teach my freshmen this principle would make the class run smoother and more efficient. This is a major principle in life and I feel that when it is practiced it can make a big difference in one’s