The theory of Rebirth and the Stigma of Rhetoric.

           Hitler's Mein Kamph is a book of hate speech, false information, and skilled rhetoric. The horrific ideology of the book makes it difficult to applaud in any respect; however the effective rhetoric of the text is difficult to ignore. What is particular about this text is that while the words themselves are cruel, they are not what makes this text so difficult to deconstruct in the same respect as other classic pieces of literature. It is the atrocious actions these words provoked that makes this text so painful to read. Knowing about the history surrounding the book makes it even more chilling because the persuasive speech becomes clear. When at the receiving end of this rhetoric, you begin to see the manipulative capabilities of rhetorical speech. How the simple use of language can manipulate a group of people in a time of grief and economical distress to do something so immoral and outside their realm of typical behavior. The Mein Kamph is filled with many rhetorical devices but its most notable strategies is it's use of rebirth messages. A rhetorical device that is commonly viewed in a negative light and continues to promote the stigma of the term 'rhetoric'.

              Using messages of rebirth is controversial because it is often understood as a manipulative tactic. Its appeal to the damaged and distressed encourages many to view it as taking advantage of the weak. Its popular use in the Mein Kamph is a strong force that promote the stigma against 'rhetoric' as a practice. The economic downturn Germany was experiencing allowed for Hitler's words to be even more powerful. The promise of wealth and an end to their struggles; made many listen and follow him. The issue with rebirth messages is that they are often fueled by desperation; however this does not mean they are solely used for manipulative purposes. This understanding of 'rebirth' is incredibly flat and lacks dimension. Rebirth messages are not simply methods of taking advantage of the weak; there uses are far more ranged. In an attempt to develop a more dimensional understanding of the idea 'rebirth' I tried to search for other uses of the device.
                 Churches were one of the first examples that came to mind when considering institutions that apply the idea of rebirth to their work. This idea of allowing member to be 'born again' and 'cleaned of their impurities' are attributed with joining the institution. This use is not necessarily guided by a certain motive. Many claim religious institutions use this rebirth metaphor for reasons of support. To bring action to these words, many even perform baptisms. A ceremony that depicts the inflicted person emerging from water; a universally acceptable symbol of life.  Rebirth is also found in commercial practices. Weight loss products are notable example. They utilize the idea of rebirth; by promising their customers a new life and better health. They use rhetoric for wealth and camouflages their monetary desires as genuine good intentions. This use of rebirth is usually what is being recognized when the 'rebirth' rhetorical device is being criticized. Many fail to think of its applications in addiction support groups. The idea that there can be a new beginning; is often a very effective technique in aiding recovering alcoholics. This practice is different from the previously mentioned uses because it fails to accomplish anything for the rhetorician in question. The idea of rebirth can be incredibly powerful and the misuse of this power has led many to reject its application entirely. I think its important to understand the rhetorical devices functioning in the Mein Kamph and specifically understand how they function. To understand them separately from the horrible events that occurred and study devices apart from their typical application. The Mein Kamph is a book that has been rightfully demonized but it is important to separate the hate speech from the persuasive techniques. This book is possibly one of many great historical examples of rhetoric being used 'for evil' which makes it incredibly easy to demonize the practice entirely. I think it is crucial to understand rhetorical devices as separate beings and to cognitively detach them from their applications. It is crucial to understand rhetoric as the medium of conflict and not the enemy because without this understanding it is impossible to have a fighting chance.