Topic 9: Techniques of Persuasion Flashcards
What factors make an argument persuasive?
Strong, SCRAAP-quality evidence
Sound causal reasoning
Agreement with underlying assumptions
Effective language and rhetorical style
What is rhetoric in the context of persuasion?
The art of using language to convince the reader.
What question should critical thinkers ask when reviewing arguments?
What evidence is being left out because it’s incompatible with the argument?
Why is it important to think about your audience?
Understanding their knowledge, values, and beliefs helps you craft arguments that are more relatable and persuasive.
What questions help you assess your audience?
What do they already know?
Are they familiar with the evidence?
Have they formed opinions already?
What values underlie their beliefs?
How diverse is the audience?
What is destructive testing in persuasive writing?
A brainstorming process where you anticipate objections and challenge your argument as a reader would.
What should you do to handle reader objections?
Anticipate and address them in your writing
Refute or explain why they don’t weaken your point
Show that you’ve considered alternatives
What is negative evidence and how should it be used?
Evidence that contradicts your claim. It should be acknowledged and addressed to strengthen credibility.
What are rival causes?
Other possible explanations for a cause-effect relationship that challenge your causal claim.
Where can rival causes come from?
Group differences
Reverse causation
Third variables
Post hoc fallacies
How should you respond to debatable assumptions?
Make assumptions explicit
Present counterarguments or evidence
Acknowledge when values differ and show their worth
What should you do if you have no rebuttal?
Acknowledge limitations respectfully. Use phrases like:
“Although this may go beyond the scope of the paper…”
“Although these factors are not being addressed here…”
What is empty rhetoric?
Language that is showy or insincere, lacking real substance — often used to manipulate or mislead.
What is the danger of empty rhetoric?
It can undermine credibility, especially if seen as insincere or dishonest.
Why must you use thorough evidence in persuasive writing?
Much of your argument will be new to the reader
Helps readers connect with your message
Underdeveloped points weaken your argument
What makes persuasive evidence complete?
Specific, detailed, and fully explained
Clearly connected to your claim
Thoroughly used to its full persuasive potential
What is tone, and why does it matter?
Tone reflects the relationship between writer and reader. It should match the context — formal for scholarly writing.
How can vivid language enhance your argument?
Makes ideas memorable
Adds clarity and impact
Avoids vagueness and clichés
