GS Mains Model Question & Answer: What is Persuasion? Explain the components of persuasion. Comment

Q. What is Persuasion? Explain the components of persuasion. Comment

Model Answer:

What is Persuasion? Explain the components of persuasion.

Scholars have defined persuasion in different ways. Persuasion is a symbolic process in which communicators try to convince other people to change their attitudes or behavior regarding an issue through the transmission of a message, in an atmosphere of free choice.

Components of persuasion

1. Persuasion is a symbolic process. It takes time, consists of a number of steps, and actively involves the recipient of the message.Persuasion also involves the use of symbols, with messages transmitted primarily through language with its rich, cultural meanings. Symbols include words like freedom, justice, and equality; nonverbal signs. Symbols are persuaders’ tools, harnessed to change attitudes and mold opinions.

2. Persuasion involves an attempt to influence. Persuasion does not automatically or inevitably succeed. The persuader must intend to change another individual’s attitude or behavior, and must be aware that she is trying to accomplish this goal.

The main point here is that persuasion represents a conscious attempt to influence the other party, along with an accompanying awareness that the persuadee has a mental state that is susceptible to change. It is a type of social influence.

3. People persuade themselves

One of the great myths of persuasion is that persuaders convince us to do things we really don’t want to do. They supposedly overwhelm us with so many arguments or such verbal ammunition that we acquiesce They force us to give in.

4. Persuasion involves the transmission of a message.

The message may be verbal or nonverbal. It can be relayed interpersonally, through mass media, or via the Internet. It may be reasonable or unreasonable, factual or emotional The message can consist of arguments or simple cues, like music in an advertisement that brings pleasant memories to mind

5. Persuasion requires free choice. If, as noted earlier, self-persuasion is the key to successful influence, then an individual must be free to alter his own behavior or to do what he wishes in a communication setting.

Join General Studies Test Series for IAS Mains Examination

Printed Study Kit for UPSC Mains GS Exam

Printed Study Kit for UPSC Pre Cum Mains GS Combo

<< Go Back to Main Page