COMM 2760: Persuasion and Social Influence - Persuading Responsibly

Benefits & Costs

Interventions to change behaviors are acceptable if the benefits outweigh the costs. This means that the process of behavior change should be more positive than punitive, the benefits must be significant for both majority and minority groups, and they should not only accrue to one political party. Moreover, it is essential that those affected by the policy are consulted in the policy-making process.

Intervening from Behind the Veil-of-Ignorance

The method for this intervention involves answering moral dilemmas and scenarios from behind the veil of ignorance. In this approach, the condition requires two different perspectives: control, where one answers as they normally would, and the veil-of-ignorance, where one answers from a position of ignorance regarding personal circumstances. The dependent variable in this scenario is the acceptability of a utilitarian response, which aims to benefit the most people. The reasoning behind the veil of ignorance tends to favor the greater good.

The Power of Knowledge

The first step to problem-solving is to learn about the processes that created the problems. This involves examining the data and rigorously questioning why things are the way they are. Once the reasons behind certain conditions are understood, strategies for addressing those issues can be devised.

Great Power, Great Responsibility

It is crucial to use knowledge to empower others. If one is free, it is important to free others; if one possesses power, their role should be to empower someone else. Recognizing the influence that one possesses is essential for effective intervention and support.