D’Angelo, Frank J. “An Ontological Basis for a Modern Theory of Composing Process.” Cross-Talk in Comp Theory, edited by Victor Villanueva and Kristin L. Arola, National Council of Teachers of English, 2011, pp. 141-150.

In the article, “An Ontological Basis for a Modern Theory of Composing Process,” Frank J. D’Angelo suggests that “a modern theory of the composing process can be based directly on evolutionary theory as it relates to the origins and history of consciousness” (141). D’Angelo supports his claim by exploring, in depth, various psychologist’s arguments. His purpose is to show a connection between composition and the evolution of consciousness in order to show that rhetoric can be used to unify people. I believe his argument is aimed at his fellow theorists. As a student and possible future teacher, I found his conclusion clear, albeit a bit “Polly-Anna.” I also wish he would have explained more thoroughly how the psychology and ontology were connected with the composing process.