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To: iacovatx

I think I follow the idea of Fuzzy Trace Theory, but how could that be harnessed to win arguments? What would an example be?


101 posted on 01/20/2013 6:01:11 PM PST by Steel Wolf ("Few men desire liberty; most men wish only for a just master." - Gaius Sallustius Crispus)
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To: Steel Wolf

“I think I follow the idea of Fuzzy Trace Theory, but how could that be harnessed to win arguments? What would an example be?”

Thanks for the note. Fuzzy Trace Theory has been particularly associated with explaining false memory syndrome. Consistent with Fuzzy Trace Theory, the remedies for bad liberal thinking might include framing (positive v negative) of points being made. Remedies might also include avoidance of numerical information—people don’t respond well to quantitative information including probabilities, even though such information is valuable in making good decisions. Stick to qualitative relationships and make a few points salient. Don’t overwhelm with data or points made. Keep it simple and memorable. Sort of like a simple melody you can’t forget. A good example of this is the Eddie Eagle child safety message—that message is simple, memorable, not numerical, and can be framed in a fun way while getting serious attention from a child because it is about their personal safety (they want to be safe, of course, as it is a natural human drive). “Stop. Don’t touch. Leave the area. Tell an adult.” I might even drop the “leave the area” element as “tell an adult” may accomplish that part and the remaining message is a simple, almost rhythmic message—very memorable and likely effective in protecting a child.

Perhaps the message to a liberal is “Protect yourself. [Politician] is power hungry.” Repeat, over and over. See if the lib can come up with a refutation. If the lib degenerates into emotional meltdown (they often do), hope that others see his reaction.

Just some $0.0200 thoughts.


107 posted on 01/21/2013 9:32:54 AM PST by iacovatx (Conservatism is the political center--it is not "right" of center)
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