Underlying Assumptions & Techniques of Persuasion

Question 1

Identify and describe 2 underlying assumptions

Answer 1

Suppositions upon which an argument is based (implicit or unstated)

Reality Assumptions
- Beliefs about what events have taken place, what exists, how things work in the world
- Shaped by first hand experiences, what we read/see
* How can we evaluate the accuracy of a reality assumption?
- Use data / provide new information

Value Assumptions
- Ideals, standards of right and wrong, the way things SHOULD be
- Shaped by family, teachers, friends, religion, culture
- Often resistant to change
* How can we evaluate the accuracy of a value assumption?
- We can’t

Question 2

Identify and describe causal claims

Answer 2

• Claims that argue that certain events or factors (causes) are responsible for creating other events (effects)
  (ex. Collecting customer feedback makes companies successful)
• Commonly used to understand the world
• Difficult to accept as effects may have rival causes

Question 3

Identify and describe types of rival causes

Answer 3

1. Differences between groups
   - Other differences between groups may be relevant
2. Correlation between characteristics
   - Correlation does not necessarily indicate causation
3. POST HOC, ERGO, PROPTER HOC
   Post Hoc = After this
   Ergo = Therefore
   Propter Hoc = Because of this

Question 4

Identify and describe how to anticipate and counter objections

Answer 4

• Destructive testing of ideas
• Discussing and rebutting objections INCREASES your credibility

Question 5

Identify and describe how to limit claims if you have no rebuttal

Answer 5

• Acknowledging limitations makes your writing/speaking more persuasive
• Limit your generalizations (use a qualifier)
• Acknowledge level of probability is not 100%
• Refine or redefine your terms
• Show your reader that you understand the complexity of the issue
• Address sub-causal claims

Question 6

Identify and describe how to use rhetoric effectively

Answer 6

• Rhetoric isn’t bad, empty rhetoric is
• Persuasive appropriate rhetoric is:
• Complete using full and clear detail
• Written with appropriate tone
• Vivid and concrete not vague or cliché

Question 7

What is Logos? Ethos? Pathos?

Answer 7

Logos: Appeal to logic, evidence
Ethos: Appeal to credibility, authority
Pathos: Appeal to emotion, feeling