Glittering generalities

Definition

Glittering generalities refer to emotionally appealing words or phrases that evoke positive feelings but lack specific meaning or concrete evidence. This persuasive technique is often used in political campaigns and propaganda to create an idealized image or resonate with the audience's values, without providing substantial support or detail. By focusing on broad, positive attributes, glittering generalities aim to sway opinions and garner support through feelings rather than facts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Glittering generalities are often used in political speeches to invoke feelings of patriotism, hope, or change, aiming to connect with voters on an emotional level.
2. This technique typically relies on vague phrases like 'freedom,' 'hope,' and 'justice' that sound appealing but can be interpreted in various ways.
3. Candidates who effectively use glittering generalities can create a strong, positive brand image, which may help them stand out in crowded political races.
4. While glittering generalities can be persuasive, they can also lead to disillusionment if voters feel misled when concrete actions do not match the appealing rhetoric.
5. Critics of glittering generalities argue that they undermine informed decision-making by focusing on emotional resonance rather than factual information.

Review Questions

• How do glittering generalities function in political campaigns to influence voter behavior?
  • Glittering generalities function by tapping into the emotions of voters, creating a sense of connection with ideals like freedom, hope, or change. Politicians use these appealing phrases to evoke positive feelings, making their messages more relatable and memorable. This emotional resonance can lead to increased voter support as individuals are drawn to candidates who seem aligned with their values, even if the specific policies remain vague.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of using glittering generalities in political propaganda compared to other persuasive techniques.
  • The effectiveness of glittering generalities often lies in their ability to create an emotional bond with the audience. While other techniques might rely on logical arguments or factual evidence, glittering generalities appeal directly to the audience's sentiments. However, this approach can be less effective when voters seek detailed policy proposals or substantive debates. Ultimately, while it can capture attention and generate excitement, reliance solely on glittering generalities may leave gaps in credibility if not backed by action.
• Critically analyze the potential consequences of relying heavily on glittering generalities in political discourse and its impact on democratic engagement.
  • Relying heavily on glittering generalities can have significant consequences for political discourse and democratic engagement. While they can energize and mobilize voters by appealing to shared values, they can also foster cynicism and disengagement if individuals feel manipulated by vague promises. When citizens realize that glittering rhetoric is not followed by actionable policies, trust in political institutions may decline. This can lead to apathy among voters who become disillusioned with the political process and question the authenticity of candidates who prioritize emotional appeal over concrete solutions.

Related terms

Propaganda: Information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote a political cause or point of view.

Emotional appeal: A rhetorical strategy that persuades an audience by eliciting strong emotional responses, often bypassing logical reasoning.

Loaded language: Words or phrases that are emotionally charged and convey strong positive or negative connotations, influencing perception.