Questions: Your textbook suggests that to compose an ethically good and persuasive public speech you should avoid risk.
(A) True
(B) False
Transcript text: Your textbook suggests that to compose an ethically good and persuasive public speech you should avoid risk.
(A) True
(B) False
Solution
The answer is (B) False.
Explanation:
Ethically Good and Persuasive Speech: An ethically good and persuasive public speech often involves addressing important and sometimes controversial issues. Avoiding risk entirely can lead to a lack of depth and engagement in your speech. Ethical persuasion involves presenting arguments honestly and respectfully, even if they involve some level of risk.
Engagement and Impact: To truly engage and persuade an audience, a speaker may need to take risks by addressing sensitive topics, challenging prevailing opinions, or presenting new ideas. This can make the speech more impactful and memorable.
Examples: Historical speeches that have had significant impact often involved taking risks. For instance, Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech addressed the highly sensitive and risky topic of racial equality during a time of significant tension in the United States.
Balanced Approach: While taking risks can be important, it is also crucial to balance this with ethical considerations, ensuring that the speech does not harm or mislead the audience. This involves thorough research, presenting evidence-based arguments, and respecting differing viewpoints.
In summary, avoiding risk entirely is not a characteristic of an ethically good and persuasive public speech. Instead, a balanced approach that involves taking calculated risks while maintaining ethical standards is more effective.