Rhetorical theory and practice of Adam S. Bennion

The objectives of this study are to delineate Dr. Bennion's rhetorical theory and to appraise his speaking. Dr. Bennion both wrote and adopted valid ideas concerned with the practice of spoken rhetoric. In his theory he suggested that one build a wealth of ideas, have a compelling organization, study the techniques of speaking and develop spiritual warmth. Shortly before his death, in 195􁪽Dr. Bennion started to compile speeches that he felt were representative of his speaking. In 1961 his family finished the compilation and arranged for the publication of the book, The Candle of the Lord. The title was taken from a baccalaureate address he made at the 1950 commencement exercise at the University of Utah. The address is the prologue to the book and was chosen for analysis in this study because it exemplifies the type of inspirational speaking that was Dr. Bennion's Dr. Bennion's rhetoric in "The Candle of the Lord" is measured in the light of Thonssen and Baird's, "Standards of Judgment," treating specifically Elements of Clearness and Impressiveness of Style." To evaluate Dr. Bennion's subject matter and delivery and appraise his effectiveness, a questionnaire was mailed to ninety six people. Sixty-five responded. Voluntary comments enliven fifty-three of the responses. Interviews with several knowledgeable people and the examination of published and unpublished material relating to his speaking are reported.