Public Speaker Chapter 17 Questions

What is causal reasoning? Why is the relationship between causes and effects not always clear?

- Causal reasoning tries to establish the relationship between causes and effects. - The fact that one event happens after another does not mean that the first is the cause of the second.

What is analogical reasoning? Why is analogical reasoning frequently used in persuasive speeches on questions of policy?

- When arguing for a new policy, you should find out whether it has been tried elsewhere. You may be able to claim that your policy will work because it has worked in like circumstances.

What are the 10 logical fallacies discussed in this chapter?

- Hasty generalization, false cause, invalid analogy, bandwagon, red herring, ad hominem, either-or, slippery slope, appeal to tradition, appeal to novelty.

What is credibility? What two factors exert the most influence on an audience's perception of a speaker's credibility?

- Credibility is the audience's attitude toward or perception of the speaker - A speaker's credibility is affected by two primary factors- competence and character.

What is evidence? Why do persuasive speakers need to use evidence?

- Evidence consists of examples, statistics, and testimony used to prove or disprove something. - Careful listeners are skeptical of unsupported claims and generalizations. Strong evidence is particularly important when the speaker is not recognized as an expert on the topic and when the target audience opposes the speaker's point of view.

What are the differences among initial credibility, derived credibility, and terminal credibility?

- Initial credibility is the audience;s perception of a speaker before the speech begins. - Derived credibility is produced by everything a speaker says and does during the speech. - Terminal credibility is the audience's perception of the speaker at the end of the speech.

What is reasoning from principle? How is it different from reasoning from specific instances?

- Reasoning from principle involves moving from a general principle to a specific conclusion. - It is exact opposite of reasoning from specific instances.

What is reasoning from specific instances? Why is it important to supplement reasoning from specific instances with testimony or statistics?

- Reasoning from specific instances involves progressing from a number of particular facts to a general conclusion. - Because you can never give enough specific instances in a speech to make your conclusion irrefutable, you should supplement them with testimony or statistics.

What are three ways you can enhance your credibility during your speeches?

- Speakers can enhance their credibility by explaining their competence, establishing common ground with the audience, and delivering speeches fluently, expressively, and with conviction.

What is the role of emotional appeal in persuasive speaking? Identify three methods you can use to generate emotional appeal in your speeches.

- Three ways to generate emotional appeal are to use emotionally charged language, vivid examples, and speak with sincerity and conviction.

What are four tips for using evidence effectively in a persuasive speech?

Speakers should use specific evidence, current evidence, evidence from credible sources, and make clear the point of the evidence.