Post #3

I would have to say that I disagree with the Greeks that in order to be an orator, the individual had to be morally good. An orator is simply one who delivers a speech. I can say from experience that I have listened to many immoral individuals get up in front of people and make a speech.
One example that comes to my mind is politics. How many corrupt politicians are out there? A lot right? These same corrupt politicians are constantly in the lime light promoting some cause or another. Does this mean just because these people make speeches that means they are good? No, I don't think it does.
Another example is the law. There are many persuasive and talented lawyers who can spin a case in court whatever way the wish to. A lawyer's job is to defend their client. A just lawyer would not lie in order to win a case, but does that mean that lawyers have never lied before a jury to get their client off the hook? Of coarse lawyers have lied in order to win.
I am not saying that I don't believe there are honest people in the world. The connection I see when I look at public speaking, goodness and truth is on a case by case basis. There are many people who stand on a platform saying things they shouldn't be saying. There are also many people who believe in integrity and honesty and these are the people worth listening too.
One example of goodness linked to communication is my high school youth pastor. Will is his name and he is a man of his word. He puts God first and as a reflection from that he is honest and just. When someone doesn't have to lie about who they are and what they stand for then I think we can see goodness in public speaking.