Towards the Development of a Pragmatic Ethical Criticism: In Bruges, Media Violence, and the Moral Imagination

• In Event: Ethics, Bodies, and Technologies

Abstract

The following essay is guided by two objectives. First, I seek to outline a perspective and vocabulary regarding the criticism of rhetorical ethics developed from the tradition of American pragmatism, particularly as discussed by Dewey, Rorty and Johnson. Secondly, I seek to exemplify the utilization of this pragmatic critical vocabulary and perspective by analyzing the film In Bruges as it is situated within the dual contexts of ethical mediated violence and parenting behaviors.

Author

• Joshua Ewalt, University of Georgia