Nonverbal Communication in Political Debates presents a framework for understanding and analyzing the multiple ways that nonverbal behavior functions in political debates. In addition to addressing the ways in which politicians are presented and present themselves in debate broadcasts, the framework considers a wide array of strategic objectives and unintended consequences of candidates' nonverbal behaviors. Along the way, the book examines theory and research from both humanistic and social scientific approaches, as well as an immense range of factors that influence how nonverbal behavior is enacted and portrayed. Scholars of communication, political science, psychology, and public relations will find this book particularly useful.
John S. Seiter is distinguished professor of communication studies in the Department of Languages, Philosophy, and Communication Studies at Utah State University. Harry Weger, Jr. is professor of communication at University of Central Florida in Orlando.
Table of Contents Chapter 1. A Rationale and Framework for Exploring Nonverbal Communication in Political Debates Chapter 2. A Primer on Nonverbal Behavior Chapter 3. Nonverbal Behavior of the Speaking Candidate Chapter 4. Background Nonverbal Behavior in Political Debates: The Role of Nonspeaking Candidates Chapter 5. Mediated Nonverbal Communication and Political Debates Chapter 6. Applying Principles of Persuasion to the Social Scientific Study of Nonverbal Behavior in Political Debates Chapter 7. Humanistic Theories for Analyzing Nonverbal Behavior in Televised Debates Chapter 8. Nonverbal Behavior in the 2016 Presidential Debates: Applying Communication Theory to the Debates
Nonverbal Communication in Political Debates is a long overdue, much needed interdisciplinary synthesis of theory and research in nonverbal behavior, persuasion, argumentation, politics and media studies, as these fields relate to political debates. This book is wide ranging in the scope of literature surveyed, grounded in theoretical perspectives drawn from relevant fields, and carefully argued to assess the status of our knowledge about nonverbal behavior in debates. An essential work for scholars studying political debates, John Seiter and Harry Weger's work has set the stage for advancing our understanding of how nonverbal behaviors contribute to shaping political images in debates, not only in the U.S. but in any political system that features political debates. -- Edward A. Hinck, Central Michigan University Nonverbal Communication in Political Debates illuminates an interesting and important area of political persuasion. This book offers a wealth of information on presidential debates, based on both established and original research. Current and historical examples of presidential debates are highlighted and each example is clearly tied to communication theories and models. The chapters are highly informative and clarify a number of controversies surrounding the nonverbal behavior of candidates vying for the highest office in the land. This book should appeal to academics and non-academics alike, thanks to its clear, accessible writing style. It is suitable for upper division undergraduates or graduate students. -- Robert Gass, California State University, Fullerton
