Communication
Rhetoric and persuasive argument has been used since the inception ofhuman language, from Greek philosophers in ancient Athens to religioussages in the Far East. Persons who feel strongly about their opinions havea right and in perhaps a responsibility to express their views and to tryand influence the minds of others. Persuasion engages people in dialogueand debate, which are natural and healthy forms of interpersonal
In fact, effective persuasion can change the course ofhistory: had Columbus not persuaded Queen Isabella to fund his journey, theworld would look much different today. Persuasion implies adiscussion designed to both educate and to change minds; an effectiverhetorician can deeply impact his or her audience in a positive way. If all evidence presented is factual and theargument is straightforward, then a persuasive speech can enlighten itslisteners, even if the audience chooses to disagree. An effective communicator presents a powerful case and hopesto change the minds of his or her audience; it is his or her job to evoke adesired response. Itforces those who would listen to be open-minded and to examine issues theymight have otherwise overlooked. However, it is up to the audience to analyze thespeaker's position and intelligently reach an independent conclusion. Persuasion can only be construed asmanipulation if the receiving party chooses to avoid independentinvestigation. Only when a speaker provides false or misleading information is apersuasive argument immoral. Anaudience cannot blame the speaker for presenting a good case. Persuasion is an inherently ethical process because it createsdialogue and invites people to examine their own interests and beliefs. However, the responsibility still rests with the audience on whether or notto act on the advice of the speaker.
Common topics in this essay:
Queen Isabella,
East Persons,
,
change minds,
persuasive argument,
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