Concepts in science –tested when possible by experimentation and in which results are confirmed by an appropriately necessary theory, if not a formula– proceed from stochastic reasoning to a means of discovery with care and ever more perceptive caution.

"Some viewers tend to suspect that a documentary is unreliable if it manipulates the events that are filmed."

p. 349

death of discourse, epistemology of visual imagery

Limitations of visual narrative

Categorical Narratives

story line is of a particular genre.

Rhetorical Narratives

stories are persuasive,

"groupings that individuals or societies create to organize their knowledge of the world."

"If a documentary filmmaker wants to convey some information about the world to audiences, categories may provide a basis for organizing the film's form."

p. 353.

"the filmmaker may want to make an argument that will convince the spectator of something."

p. 353.

"Rhetorical form is common in all media."it addresses the viewer openly, trying to move him or her to a new intellectual conviction."

Second, the subject of the film is usually not an issue of scientific truth, but a matter of opinion. . .

"The filmmaker often appeals to our emotion, rather than presenting only factual evidence."

"Fourth, the film often attempts to persuade the viewer to make a choice that will have an effect on his or her everyday life."