Appealing to fear, according to Epstein on page 192, “is a way for politicians and advertisers to manipulate people” for them to get their support or lure them to buy their products. A great example for this is the way politicians used advertisement just the past election for state governors. We’ve noticed that instead of mostly advertising themselves, most of the politicians used advertising as a way to put out the negative comments against their opponents.
Obviously, when we hear negative statements about candidate our initial reaction is to prevent from voting for that person. However, we’re not focusing on what could be true and the positives that they are offering if you vote for them. Instead, we are disappointed by the fear, that their opponents have brought upon us by highlighting the negative side of the candidate, that they wouldn’t do so well if we end up voting for them for office. Even if they are politicians and many of us depend on them to make the country better, we cannot be sure who is telling the truth or just simply ruining other people’s images.
Your post has been very informative and clear. I enjoyed reading your post because you have a very well understood grasp of this topic. I also think that appeal to fear is one of the strongest tools used by advertisers in sending any message. Appeal to fear can be used in speeches, advertisements, and any setting where emotions are trying to be conveyed. I like how you explained how politicians can be very persuasive when using appeals to fear because its entirely true. Governments use appeal to fear everyday because it is one of the most influential arguments.
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