Date of Graduation
5-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Communication (MA)
Degree Level
Graduate
Department
Communication
Advisor/Mentor
Neville-Shepard, Ryan M.
Committee Member
Smith, Stephen A.
Second Committee Member
Khan, Abraham
Keywords
Apocalypticism; Climate Change; Donald Trump; Environmental Rhetoric; Political Rhetoric; Racism
Abstract
This thesis explores the rhetorical style termed 'Apocalyptic Egotism,' focusing on its manifestation in American political discourse and environmental activism. By analyzing the rhetoric of Donald Trump and prominent climate advocates, including Al Gore, King Charles III, David Wallace-Wells, and Greta Thunberg, the study identifies four key stylistic elements: imminent crisis, historical insulation, epistemic certainty, and hyperbolic agency. The analysis reveals how this rhetorical style represents a distinct departure from traditional apocalypticism and perpetuates Anglo-centric power structures and marginalizes non-Western voices, with significant implications for understanding race, rhetoric, and global inequality in the context of modern crises. The thesis concludes by proposing opportunities for further research on intersectionality, marginalized perspectives, and alternative rhetorical strategies in addressing urgent global challenges.
Citation
Griffin, G. A. (2025). Only You Can Prevent the Apocalypse: Donald Trump, the Environmental Movement, and Egotism at the Brink. Graduate Theses and Dissertations Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/5653
