The Techniques of Persuasion provides a logical and systematic introduction to the author’s persuasive techniques. It focuses on the author’s views, values, reasons and tone and style. The “Why” boxes throughout help you think about how the author’s words and tactics seek your agreement. How do they influence your thoughts and feelings?
Let’s start with a typical exercise and evaluate the author’s views and persuasive techniques: “The potato sack deception” by Mr Harry Jon. Turn to Exercise 7, page 11, See Taking it Further Techniques. (Also refer to “Sentence patterns” on p. 68.)
Firstly, it is critical to clearly and accurately identify and pinpoint the author’s views. Practice writing statements such as: Mr Jon contends that the Government should ban the burqa because it provides a useful disguise for people’s criminal activities.
Secondly, identify the author’s tone. See the tone words on p. 11 and pp. 66-67.
- “Clearly in light of this disturbing trend ..” : forthright, assertive, dogmatic, confident.
- “How do we know who’s hiding behind…”: inflammatory; provocative; challenging.
- “Its use is shaming their religion”: moralistic and self-righteous. (Sentence practice: Mr Jon comments with an authoritative
tone that “its use is shaming their religion and is of no benefit to anyone.”) - Mr Jon adopts a dogmatic tone to warn the government that it “has no option but to ban the burqa”.
The sarcastic reference to “clues as to his (or her?) identity” implies that men may wear the burqa as a convenient disguise.
Thirdly, think about this author’s evidence? What is his purpose for writing? (See pp.28-34.)
• The author relies on anecdotal evidence relating to a robbery. Its purpose is to alarm and worry consumers and make them suspicious of people who wear the burqa.
Fourthly, choose three words or phrases that you think capture this author’s views and attitudes. Explain their purpose. (See pp. 18-27).
• Mr Jon asks a rhetorical question (p. 16), “how do we know who’s hiding behind those potato sacks?” The word “potato sack” deliberately ridicules the burqa and those who wear them. Impact/purpose: This statement strikes fear into members of the public and undermines their sense of safety in the community. It may also inflame racist sentiments. (See pp. 18-19 and “exclusive language”, p. 21.)
• The criminals who wear the burqa “give Muslims a bad name”. Purpose: Mr Jon implies that Muslims should recognise that the ban is sensible because it will prevent people from misusing the burqa. Accordingly, criminals are bringing their religion into disrepute. (See p. 35, pp. 39 and 42.
Return to Techniques of Persuasion: summary page
