Defective persuasion
Choose a topic for your persuasive speech. Craft a Word document that addresses the following:
• What is your topic?
• Who is your target audience?
• Share examples of logos, pathos, and ethos you will include in the speech.
• What other persuasive techniques and/or appeals will you use?
• How will you avoid defective persuasion?
• Identify a minimum of three research materials you will use as supportive evidence. Include an APA citation and a 3-5 sentence summary of each material.
Sample Solution
Topic: I will advocate for the creation and support of community gardens in urban areas.
Target Audience: This speech is directed towards city council members and local community leaders responsible for allocating resources for urban development projects.
Persuasive Techniques:
- Logos (Appeals to Logic):
- Present statistics demonstrating the positive impact of community gardens on property values, crime rates, and community engagement ([citation 1] below).
- Highlight the cost-effectiveness of community gardens compared to traditional green spaces ([citation 2] below).
Full Answer Section
- Pathos (Appeals to Emotion):
- Share stories of individuals or communities who have benefitted from community gardens, emphasizing improved health, social connections, and a sense of belonging ([citation 3] below).
- Show pictures or videos depicting vibrant community gardens and the positive atmosphere they cultivate.
- Ethos (Appeals to Credibility):
- Cite research from reputable sources (universities, government agencies) on the benefits of community gardens.
- Mention any personal experiences or connections to community gardens to establish a relatable connection.
Additional Persuasive Techniques:
- Scarcity: Highlight the limited access to green spaces in urban areas and the urgency of creating alternative solutions.
- Bandwagon Effect: Mention existing successful community gardens in other cities to illustrate the growing popularity and effectiveness of this approach.
Avoiding Defective Persuasion:
- Overstating Claims: I will ensure all claims about the benefits of community gardens are supported by reliable evidence.
- Emotional Manipulation: The focus will be on factual information and positive stories, avoiding tactics that exploit emotions unfairly.
- False Dichotomies: I will acknowledge potential challenges of community gardens (e.g., maintenance) and propose solutions rather than presenting a one-sided argument.
Research Materials:
-
Donovan, S., & Pickard, A. (2018). The positive effects of urban green spaces on property values: A review of the evidence. Journal of Landscape and Urban Planning, 178, 122-138.