Glittering generalities

Definition

Glittering generalities are emotionally appealing phrases or slogans that carry a high level of significance but lack specific detail or substance. These terms are often used in propaganda to evoke positive emotions and create an attractive image, making them powerful tools for persuasion without providing concrete evidence.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glittering generalities often include vague but positive language such as 'freedom,' 'justice,' and 'hope,' which can be interpreted in multiple ways.
2. This technique is frequently used in political campaigns to rally support without addressing specific policies or actions.
3. Audiences are more likely to respond favorably to glittering generalities because they resonate with their values and beliefs.
4. While glittering generalities can be persuasive, they can also lead to disillusionment when individuals realize the lack of substance behind the rhetoric.
5. Understanding glittering generalities is crucial for critically evaluating persuasive messages in media and advertising.

Review Questions

• How do glittering generalities function as a persuasive technique in communication?
  • Glittering generalities function by appealing to the emotions and values of the audience, using positive and emotionally charged language that creates a favorable impression. This technique is effective because it bypasses logical reasoning, allowing the audience to feel good about a message without critically analyzing its content. By evoking feelings of hope, pride, or unity, glittering generalities can create strong support for ideas or movements without needing detailed explanations.
• Discuss the potential ethical implications of using glittering generalities in political messaging.
  • Using glittering generalities in political messaging raises ethical concerns regarding transparency and honesty. While these phrases can motivate and inspire, they can also mislead voters if important details are omitted. This approach can result in a lack of accountability, as politicians may rely on emotional appeal rather than substantive policy discussions. The reliance on glittering generalities may undermine informed decision-making among voters, creating an environment where emotional manipulation overshadows rational discourse.
• Evaluate the role of glittering generalities in shaping public opinion during significant historical events.
  • Glittering generalities have played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion during significant historical events by mobilizing mass support through emotionally charged language. For instance, during wartime, leaders have often used phrases like 'defending freedom' or 'fighting for justice' to garner public backing for military actions without providing detailed accounts of their implications. By framing their messages around broadly appealing concepts, these leaders have successfully influenced perceptions and rallied citizens behind causes, showcasing how powerful this technique can be in steering collective sentiment during critical moments in history.

Related terms

Propaganda: A form of communication aimed at influencing the attitude of a community toward some cause or position, often using misleading or biased information.

Emotional Appeal:

A rhetorical device that seeks to persuade an audience by appealing to their emotions rather than logic or reason.

Cliché: An overused expression or idea that has lost its originality and impact, often employed in rhetoric to simplify complex messages.