Aporia (a-po’-ri-a): Deliberating with oneself as though in doubt over some matter; asking oneself (or rhetorically asking one’s hearers) what is the best or appropriate way to approach something [=diaporesis].
I could vote “yes” on this Wall Street reform package–or I could vote “no” on it. If I vote “yes” I might not get reelected. If I vote “no” I might not get reelected. Let’s see, maybe I should abstain. No! I’m going to vote “yes” because it’s the right thing to do–it’s what is best for you: the American people, my constituents.
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Definition courtesy of “Silva Rhetoricae” (rhetoric.byu.edu). Bracketed text added by Gorgias.
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