Plain Language and Ethical Action

Russell Willerton teaches in the technical communication program at Boise State University. He has published articles on visual communication, white papers in high-tech industries, and online health information.

This book offers a thoroughgoing examination of the reciprocal relationship of plain language and dialogic ethics in technical communication. The reviews of research here are perceptive and meticulous, the interviews with international communicators are provocative, and the organization profiles are instructive and inspiring. Willerton offers us a promising portrait of the field—of clear and simple words making the lives of people better in theory and in practice. Sam Dragga, Professor, Texas Tech University In this deeply researched and yet absolutely practical book, Willerton presents a thorough and fascinating consideration of issues of ethics and plain language. You'll want to review his six case studies, learn his BUROC model, and think deeply about the questions he raises. Whether you are a teacher, student, or writing professional, you will find this book adds a critical dimension to your approach to all your work. Dr. Janice (Ginny) Redish, author, Letting Go of the Words: Writing Web Content that WorksSkeptical at first, Willerton’s book changed how I think about plain language. Russell accumulates evidence and events; national and global sites; and learned and organizational perspectives that make plain language and its implementation an irresistible addition to the field. Plain language is an important element of professional and technical communication, an assertion I am confident making only after reading Plain Language and Ethical Action. Obfuscation beware! Michael J. Salvo, Associate Professor, Purdue University

• List of Figures List of Tables Series Editor Foreword Preface Acknowledgments Chapter 1. Understanding Plain Language and Opportunities to Use It Chapter 2. Overview of Ethics in the Technical and Professional Communication Literature Chapter 3. Perspectives on Plain Language and Ethics from Professionals around the World Chapter 4. Profile: Healthwise, Inc. Chapter 5. Profile: Civic Design Chapter 6. Profile: Restyling the Federal Rules of Evidence Chapter 7. Profile: CommonTerms Chapter 8. Profile: Health Literacy Missouri Chapter 9. Profile: Kleimann Communication Group and TILA-RESPA Documentation Chapter 10. Public Examples of Dialogic Communication in Clear Language in the 21st Century Chapter 11. Conclusion References