ABSTRACT
Given the high regard I have for the argumentation scholars here today, for the people from the University of Utah whose hard work and commitment sustains this unique conference, for the daunting list of past keynote speakers, and for this year’s incomparable conference director, I am truly honored, if not a bit overwhelmed, to address you today. In line with the intriguing conference theme, I’ll start by breaking from Alta convention in two ways. First, I want to thank Georgia State University doctoral students – Stephen Heidt, Houda Abadi, Andrew Barnes, and Sara Baugh – for their hard work and ideas in helping me prepare for this address. If I disturb you today, be assured it was not of their doing. Having the opportunity to work with them, knowing they will emerge as insightful colleagues, and hoping that they will remain life-long friends is important to me. Second, I need to issue a warning. Viewer discretion is advised. However else you may remember my speech in the future, I believe it may go down as the fi rst R rated Alta keynote address. 1 So, let’s get started.
