Research suggests that if you wish to persuade an audience, only one side of the argument should
a) be presented to a poorly informed audience.
b) never be presented to an audience.
c) be presented to a well-informed audience.
d) be presented to every audience.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a) be presented to a poorly informed audience.
When persuading an audience, the way you present information should align with the audience’s level of knowledge and understanding of the topic. Research in persuasion psychology suggests that if you are addressing an audience that lacks sufficient knowledge about a topic, presenting only one side of the argument can be more effective. This is because a poorly informed audience is less likely to critically evaluate the information. By presenting a single side, you can more easily shape their perception and guide them toward your intended conclusion without the confusion or counterarguments that might arise from a balanced presentation.
For instance, when addressing a general audience that may not be familiar with a specific issue, it is often more strategic to focus on one side of the argument and reinforce the key points that support your stance. This avoids overwhelming the audience with too much information or differing viewpoints, which might cause them to feel uncertain or confused.
On the other hand, if the audience is well-informed (as in option c), presenting only one side may not be as effective. A well-informed audience is likely to recognize the complexity of the issue and may seek a more balanced presentation of both sides, which would allow them to engage with the topic more critically.
Thus, presenting only one side to a poorly informed audience works because it capitalizes on their lack of prior knowledge, making them more receptive to the presented arguments. However, this approach should be used carefully, as audiences that are too uninformed might also be more susceptible to manipulation or biased reasoning.