The Modern Superpower: How to Persuade People

Whether we realize it or not, we are surrounded by persuasion every day. Not only from advertisements and various other media, but also from the people we know.  There are very few days that go by where there isn't someone trying to get us to do or believe something. Persuasion is a part of life. However, whether our attempts at persuasion actually work is a different story. Some people are quite effective at getting what they want; others are not. The difference between the two is often dependent upon the approach taken. This course hopes to offer some insight into how to effectively persuade people. It also seeks to teach you how to identify when others are masterfully trying to persuade *you*.    We want you to be able to identify it when you see it and be able to use it when you need it.

The first part of the class explores the concept of rhetoric. If language had a form of martial arts, rhetoric would be it. Thus, since we all use language every day, it would be silly not to equip ourselves with the techniques and insights it offers. You may have heard some variation of the saying: 'You shouldn't bring rocks to a gunfight'. Well, when it comes to persuasion, knowing rhetoric is the equivalent of bringing a bazooka... or perhaps a bulletproof vest, as it reveals the fundamentals behind all persuasion.

The second part of class builds upon the concepts of rhetoric by covering eight (8) easy language-based techniques anyone can use at any time to persuade an audience. These tactics include using the LESS technique, Cognitive Dissonance, and Loaded Words, to name a few. These are simple but highly effective tactics you can begin using immediately to be more convincing.

It has been said that a person's inherent morals are only revealed once they have power. Thus, we implore you: please use this knowledge for good, not evil, because in many ways, it truly offers access to a real-world superpower.

Enjoy.