Analysis of The Effective Rhetorical Techniques Used by Joe Rogan in Triggered

1. Introduction

In an increasingly complicated world, characterizing and investigating examples of effective rhetoric is crucial. From political orations to viral TikToks, rhetoric is ubiquitous, yet many speakers and writers fail to communicate effectively. By examining a specific set of techniques used in a specific text, this essay aims to dissect the intricacies of rhetoric and enhance one’s ability to appreciate, analyze, and employ rhetorical techniques. While a single analysis may not dramatically alter the course of public discourse, it is hoped that this exploration will inspire similar inquiries. Amidst the chaos of contemporary discourse, some still strive to communicate effectively (Joy Gerdes, 2018).

Triggered, a book by podcaster Joe Rogan, offers a humorous, poetic, and often harsh critique of the modern left. Drawing on his standup comedy background, Rogan weaves in jokes and personal anecdotes to provide a cultural analysis that is both engaging and provocative. Certain passages stand out for their rhetorical prowess, making them worthy of deeper examination to identify techniques for engaging audiences in thoughtful discourse. Rogan’s relationship with his audience is multifaceted; he acts as both a comrade and a guide, sometimes inspiring them with visions of a better world and at other times treating them like inexperienced children needing direction. This analysis emphasizes passages that showcase Rogan at his finest, using personal stories and vivid detail to encourage new perspectives. Furthermore, the broader implications of his techniques and the world he portrays are also explored, highlighting why such a text is significant as a cultural artifact. (Khajornphaiboon and Vungthong, 2019)

1.1. Background of Joe Rogan and 'Triggered'

Joe Rogan is a stand-up comedian, podcaster, and author. He began his career in stand-up comedy in 1988, and in 1994, he started a role on the NBC sitcom NewsRadio. He later transitioned to hosting reality television shows, such as Fear Factor on NBC, before taking on the role of color commentator for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in 2002. Rogan began his podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, in 2009, which has gained significant popularity and has been streamed exclusively on Spotify since 2020. Additionally, he has written and published three books, with Triggered, published in 2018. Having a diverse background in entertainment, Rogan has developed a distinct way of speaking and communicating. This shapes how he writes in Triggered and how he approaches the audience.

Triggered was published during Rogan’s third year as a Spotify-exclusive podcaster. This podcast features interviews with guests from various fields, including politics, science, and entertainment. The discussions often tackle political issues and societal debates. Through the interviews on his podcast, Triggered’s writing, and his public appearances, Rogan has developed a public persona that blends curiosity, absurdity, and bluntness. This persona shapes how he engages with the audience in Triggered.

Rogan is blunt about his beliefs, which sometimes seem absurd. He argues that the fear of climate change is irrational, saying, “On a planet that’s four and a half billion years old, we’ve been monitoring the temperature for a hundred years?” This suggests he finds the concern irrelevant. His absurdity also reflects in his humorous approach to serious issues, such as when he likens the COVID-19 pandemic to the flu, claiming, “If Covid is the flu, then our country is in a crisis of fear-induced insanity.” The bluntness and absurd presentation of his beliefs shape Rogan’s public persona and influence audience perceptions of societal issues, especially in his writing about political and social topics in Triggered. Despite disagreements, it is challenging to entirely dismiss Rogan’s views, highlighting the effectiveness of his approach in engaging audiences. (Cathryn Perez, 2018)

For many on the left, the book is “deeply unfunny.” The book reviewer writes, “Reading through Triggered is like being stuck in the 10th circle of hell”. Left-leaning outlets mock Rogan when Triggered is mentioned. However, there are also right-leaning outlets that praise the book. Ultimately, Triggered is a successful book, regardless of how the public perceives it because it leads to greater popularity for Rogan, which of course leads to greater profitability as well.

Examining how Rogan shapes his public persona and the audience’s perception of societal issues through his rhetorical choices in Triggered reveals insight into how societal issues are perceived. It shows the reason behind Rogan’s effectiveness in reaching the audience via Triggered. Much is debated about how society progresses, including whether it is better to adhere to liberal or conservative ideologies. In the modern era, among the many debated topics, the most relevant is most likely whether society progresses through the liberal worldview or whether it is necessary to adhere to conservative ideals. It is hoped that the examination of Rogan’s rhetoric illuminates the reason behind perceptions of societal issues or at the very least provokes thought regarding how societal issues are perceived. Perhaps it will challenge the audience to reconsider their viewpoints as society is molded by collective ideologies.

2. Definition and Importance of Rhetorical Techniques

This section explicates the foundation of rhetorical techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos, and their significance in communication. These terms will be essential for analyzing Joe Rogan’s rhetorical choices in “Triggered.” Rhetoric, derived from the Greek word “rhetor,” meaning “public speaker,” is defined as “the art or study of using language effectively and persuasively.” Its evolution, starting with Aristotle’s view as a crucial aspect of public life among the Greeks, reveals its ongoing relevance in contemporary discourse across media and literature. An overview of rhetoric and its devices—particularly ethos, pathos, and logos—is necessary for a deeper analysis of Rogan’s choices in “Triggered.” Rhetoric, as a means of persuasion through discourse, aims to evoke emotions and influence audience opinions. Numerous rhetorical techniques exist, such as metaphors, alliterations, and analogies, but this essay will concentrate on three primary techniques, deemed most effective in “Triggered.” The goal is to illustrate how Rogan directed discourse against political correctness, sparking critical debates by employing rhetorical techniques that resonate emotionally with his audience. The significance of rhetoric lies not merely in the exchange of ideas but in its power to shape which ideas are exchanged. Thus, examining the functionality of Rogan's rhetoric is vital. This analysis transcends mere content, focusing on the form of expression. A close reading of the text will scrutinize these rhetorical choices at various levels. While debates often consider the broader context, this text is focused solely on “Triggered’s” rhetorical choices. Ultimately, it is essential to acknowledge that rhetoric holds immense importance; it is not just relevant—it is fundamental. (Leander Urquhart, 2005)

2.1. Explanation of Rhetoric and Its Relevance

Rhetoric is fundamentally the art of persuasion, aiming to influence an audience's perceptions or beliefs about an idea, event, or issue. It involves a dialogue between a rhetor (speaker/writer) and the audience, focusing on a text to shape understanding. The rhetor seeks to alter reality regarding the discourse. Rhetoric can manifest as speeches, essays, images, art, songs, memes, or ads, all sharing common elements: discourse, audience, rhetor, subject, and context. These components collaborate to create a rhetorical situation where persuasion occurs. Public engagement with rhetoric includes protests, discussions, criticisms, celebrations, and can be analyzed using the rhetor/audience/subject/transaction model, emphasizing the initial rhetoric that influences public discourse. (A. Bornman, 2013)

Rhetorical strategy refers to the way an argument is organized, and therefore the way it guides the audience's interpretation. It encompasses several elements, including the genre of the argument, the arrangement of the sections within that genre, and how those sections employ different rhetorical appeals. An argument may rely more heavily on one or two sections than the others, depending on which aspect the agent wants to emphasize. Burke proposes that by defining each of these sections, the connections working between them, the effect each has on the argument, and the motive behind the act can be more clearly seen.

3. Overview of 'Triggered' and Key Themes

The book presents an overview of Rogan’s main arguments, rhetoric, and ideology as a preeminent media figure in contemporary culture. In particular, the analysis focuses on key themes woven throughout the text, like free speech, political correctness, and cultural criticism. The discussion provides context for these themes and examines how they resonate with ongoing cultural debates. Furthermore, an overview of the book’s tone and style is offered, which reflect Rogan’s multifaceted persona in media ranging from comedian to MMA commentator to podcaster to political provocateur. This sets the stage for a focus on how Rogan presents his viewpoints, often calling upon his experiences and observations. It is hoped that this provides a compelling glimpse for readers into the provocative nature of the book, inviting engagement and consideration of its ideas in full.

There are many roads to explore in examining Rogan’s narrative, but for this analysis, attention is paid to how Rogan’s rhetorical choices shape the overall narrative and arguments presented. As such, special consideration is given to the ways Rogan employs effective rhetorical techniques to amplify his major themes. In this sense, rhetorical techniques are understood broadly as Rogan’s stylistic and structural choices and devices. While he does not rely on one or two strategies specifically, there is a propensity to employ certain techniques that enhance the efficacy of his argumentation. The focus is on three of Rogan’s more notable rhetorical techniques—contrasting perspectives, illustrative anecdotes, and stream-of-consciousness commentary—that work in tandem to bolster the thrust of his ideas. Understanding how Rogan engages these techniques contributes to the larger discourse around him as an influential media figure whose voice is shaping contemporary culture.

3.1. Summary of the Book

Triggered addresses cultural issues that he perceives as detrimental to society. It is structured in 13 brief chapters, beginning with the overall theme and culminating in his proposed solutions. Each chapter focuses on a specific topic, such as social media, academia, political correctness, and stand-up comedy. Rogan argues against what he views as excesses of the left, warning that current societal norms will lead to a dystopian future. To counter this, he advocates for a return to open discourse and the examination of issues without ideological bias. He believes his approach can resonate with both left-leaning and right-leaning individuals. Nonetheless, it is evident that he leans politically right (Cathryn Perez, 2018).

Rogan’s storytelling takes center stage. When discussing cultural issues, he often begins with personal anecdotes, demonstrating how he has dealt with similar situations. He then broadens the scope, providing illustrative examples and statistics. This narrative structure enhances his arguments’ persuasiveness, as they begin on an individual level before expanding to involve society as a whole. A notable example is his discussion on social media, which starts with his experience on Instagram and then transitions to a broader cultural critique. By relaying relatable anecdotes, he engages readers while emphasizing the societal relevance of the issues he raises. The anecdotes also serve to humanize Rogan, making it easier for readers to connect with him.

Rogan’s storytelling skills allow him to discuss complicated issues accessibly. Rather than inundating readers with facts, he offers illustrative examples that clarify his points. For instance, when addressing the hysteria surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, he highlights how different animals reacted to it, underscoring the absurdity of some human responses. This topic could easily become overly complex; however, Rogan’s illustrative example ensures readers grasp the absurdity he critiques. Ultimately, these elements allow Rogan to effectively communicate his concerns. Summarizing the text before delving into the techniques used is crucial for understanding how they function within the rhetoric’s bounds. Moreover, familiarity with the text is necessary for a rigorous academic critique.

4. Analysis of Rhetorical Techniques in 'Triggered'

As this essay explores the effective rhetorical techniques used by Joe Rogan in _Triggered_, it begins with an overview of rhetoric and its basic forms. The focus is primarily on the content of _Triggered_ rather than Rogan himself. The goal is to dissect the rhetorical techniques used and analyze their effectiveness. The foundation of the analysis is the basic understanding of rhetoric and its forms.

Rhetoric is the art of persuasion and can take numerous forms, from visual displays to speech and writing. At its core, rhetoric is the choice of language in discourse; different word choices produce different meanings. In a broader sense, rhetoric influences not only speech but also the way people understand and perceive the world. Considering the intricate ways in which discourse is shaped evokes a thoughtful examination of the techniques used in constructing arguments and narratives.

In seeking to understand the choices made in _Triggered_, the examination includes patterns in the use of anecdotes, emotional appeals, and preconceived notions of the audience. The focus is on the emotional and ethos-based techniques as well as the straight analysis of anecdotes. Although there are other techniques at work, these aspects shape the majority of the text, connecting the audience to Rogan’s world. By dissecting their use, the aim is to uncover intricate ways in which stories and ideas are shared and how the viewpoints of the audience are shaped (A Moore, 2017).

When reading _Triggered_, the rhetorical techniques used by Rogan seem to connect with the audience effectively. As with the speeches of other communicators, a deeper analysis of the techniques used sheds light on how they shape the perceptions of the audience (Gresham Dye, 2018). The insight gained can inform the construction of other narratives in a way that capitalizes on the effective methods used by Rogan. In this analysis, the discussion starts with a broader overview of rhetoric that frames the ensuing analysis of _Triggered_. This includes the techniques and their impact on the audience. Then, it moves to a deeper examination of specific instances that reveal patterns in Rogan's communication style.

4.1. Use of Anecdotes and Personal Stories

Rogan employs a variety of rhetorical techniques throughout 'Triggered,' including the use of anecdotal evidence and personal stories to support the text’s major arguments. Two of the most notable rhetorical techniques are Rogan’s use of personal stories and anecdotes, which establish a connection between Rogan and the audience. Storytelling in a persuasive rhetorical context serves to humanize arguments and personal narratives. Rogan’s use of personal anecdotes creates relatability, allowing the audience to personally engage with Rogan’s viewpoints (Atkins and Finlayson, 2013). Many of Rogan’s anecdotes are strategically placed throughout the text, such as the opening story about the 2016 election that placed Rogan’s perspective as a typical voter. Additionally, personal stories acquire an emotional appeal that is inherent in storytelling. On top of forming a connection with an audience through relatability, storytelling also allows a speaker to illustrate complex ideas through simple narratives. While there are a myriad of personal stories Rogan employs, this section will expand on three key anecdotes: the aforementioned opening anecdote about the 2016 election, a specific story about 9/11 and airplane hijackings, and Rogan’s personal experiences with political correctness relating to stand-up comedy. By effectively utilizing these anecdotes, Rogan forms strong credibility that persuades the audience to at least consider his viewpoints.

4.2. Employment of Humor and Satire

In "Triggered", Rogan effectively employs humor and satire as strategic rhetorical devices. By weaving humor into his narrative, he fosters engagement with his audience while simultaneously offering critical commentary on contemporary issues. Humor acts as a bridge between writer and reader, lightening the weight of serious subject matter and creating a shared space for exploration and reflection (Nawabi, 2016). As a satirist, Rogan takes aim at societal norms and policies, using exaggerated narratives to shed light on absurdities often overlooked by the masses. This satirical approach not only entertains but also invites readers to contemplate their perspectives on prevailing narratives.

Satire stands as one of the most effective tools for dissenters. Rogan reminds his readers that comfort and tranquility often indicate something is amiss. Rogan critiques policies, perceptions, and societal norms that seem relatively unchallenged, pointing out their absurdities. For instance, Rogan humorously recounts how a "woke" acquaintance believes jokes should not be made in light of tragedies, mocking this stance by highlighting the tenacity of comedy in the face of adversity. These humorous renditions of textual anecdotes serve a dual purpose: they entertain but also compel readers to confront the absurdity of such policies and interrogate why they conform to them. Rogan's use of humor is not accidental; it is carefully woven into narratives to engage readers' thoughts and invite reflection on serious issues. As Aristotle proposes, humor offers a thoughtful way of discussing sensitive issues, connecting disputants through jest. Rogan deftly wields humor as both a connector and a tool for disarmament, finding the right balance to encourage deep contemplation of serious subjects without overwhelming readers. Balancing an entertaining approach with gravity is a difficult task, but Rogan demonstrates careful consideration in this regard. Rogan's approach to humor is multifaceted: he integrates it into storytelling, weaves anecdotal and observational humor into serious discussions, and employs a mock-serious style reminiscent of great satirists. Rogan’s most effective humorous remarks arise from absurd situations. This technique serves to illuminate the absurdity of complex sociopolitical narratives through simple yet funny anecdotes. The effectiveness of humor often lies in its relatability, rendering complex arguments accessible to all.

5. Impact and Effectiveness of Techniques

The impact of Joe Rogan’s rhetorical techniques in 'Triggered' has been thoroughly evaluated. Readers may sometimes feel overwhelmed due to the broad subject of critique. However, Rogan’s strategies collectively resonate with readers. His humorous anecdotes draw them in and foster personal connections, allowing him to present his opinions and educate his audience. Rogan effectively critiques contemporary issues through his experiences, creating a familiar atmosphere that encourages exploration of diverse opinions. (Nawabi, 2016)

Rogan's narrative style is one that is aimed at a wide demographic. When Rogan reads this narrative aloud it could be categorized as a stand-up comedy performance, as he invokes laughter several times throughout. Using comedy as a vehicle for entertaining while educating is something that has become a norm of modern discourse, but Rogan exemplifies this technique well. Many of the stories recounted are humorous, but they also get serious at times. For example, in the opening chapter 'Hanging on For Dear Life' Rogan discusses an event at a comedy club where a drunk woman went on stage and heckled the performers. What begins as a funny story about alcohol consumption and the reaction of those in attendance ends with Rogan weaving in a deeper critique of society’s treatment of women and the ill decisions made by this woman in particular (Gresham Dye, 2018). On one hand, this is a humorous retelling of an event at work gone wrong, and on the other, it provides an in-depth critique of personal accountability that could provoke reflection in a reader. Rogan’s narrative style ebbs and flows between humor and serious contemplation, successfully finding a balance between the two. As a result, a reader may laugh and point, but it is just as likely they will stop to think deeply about the outcome of events described.

While Rogan is very successful at critiquing and entertaining, there is also a level of danger associated with this style of narrative. The balance between educating and entertaining is difficult to maintain; too far in either direction causes problems. Ask any teacher what happens when they try too hard to be entertaining in delivering information and the answer is likely a loss of valid information being conveyed. In a similar vein, Rogan runs the risk of losing validity in his points. Education is still present in these stories, but it comes in the form of a post-scriptum after engaging events are discussed. As a result, it feels at times like being told a fascinating story only to ask at the end “so what?” It is evident that Rogan's points are researched, relevant, and accurate, but the effectiveness is diminished by their placement outside of the narrative’s main thrust. Regardless of this, he is still able to get illumination across, leaving readers with a nagging feeling that there is more to things than they initially considered.

All things considered, it is easy to see why a book like this one would be chosen to make rhetorical analysis the focus of a course. The world Rogan describes is one straying further from simple validity of facts and more into a world of magic, mirage, and perception. By considering what techniques he uses and how, there is an insight into a potential means of successfully navigating modern discourse. As communication changes with the advent of new technologies and formats, so too should analysis of those communications. Rogan’s narrative style is particularly interesting because it could be interpreted in two opposing ways. On one hand, it is a style that seeks to create something grand and artistic. However, alongside that interpretation, there exists a style that could be chalked up simply to happenstance. Rogan finds himself immersed in this world with no desire to control it. It is only feasible to hope for a balance, allowing Rogan to operate at times as an auteur, meticulously crafting technique while also remaining aware of the possibilities for watchfulness inherent in a chaotic world.

Rogan skillfully plays to his strengths as a discursive actor, leveraging the characteristics of modern podcast culture to create broad appeal, particularly for younger audiences. While this culture often features good humor, it tends to lack substance, serving more as background noise for various activities. His podcast can oscillate between in-depth, three-hour interviews and fleeting anecdotes about guests' junk food habits, often disregarding deeper discussions. Despite his complaints about the quality of discourse, Rogan's work represents some of today's richest dialogue. By considering him an auteur in this landscape, one can understand the success of his podcasts and how audience perceptions influence content.

5.1. Influence on Audience Engagement and Perception

This section investigates how Joe Rogan's rhetorical techniques in Triggered influence audience engagement and perception. His writing style fosters participation by creating an illusion of conversation, prompting readers to contemplate their beliefs. The analysis explores how these techniques evoke emotional responses and affect how audiences perceive the text. It addresses feedback on Rogan’s ability to engage a wide range of readers and evaluates the success of his strategies. Rogan’s humor and personal anecdotes are examined as key elements in shaping perceptions. The potential consequences of his rhetoric, both beneficial and detrimental, are discussed. This study clarifies the effective power of sound communication in broader sociocultural contexts and emphasizes the audience's role in rhetorical analysis, showcasing how Rogan engages a diverse audience.

The effective power of rhetorically sound communication is highlighted by situating Rogan’s influence in broader sociocultural contexts. Rogan’s Triggered is chosen for analysis due to its recency and the audience's familiarity with him and related controversies. The analysis reveals how Rogan’s crafted rhetoric allows him to engage and influence viewers of varying political beliefs. Emphasizing the significance of audience in rhetorical analysis, it shows how Rogan's approach successfully reaches and impacts a wide audience, despite being relatively new to the medium. By focusing on humor and personal anecdotes, the analysis shows how the audience is made susceptible to Rogan’s influence. (Gresham Dye, 2018)

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