Category Archives: Persuasion

How to stick out like a duck-billed platypus, Part II

Trivial things amuse me. Like the fact that we all say “duck-billed platypus”… as if there were some other type of platypus it could be. Kind of like saying “European Germany.” What other kind is there? Anyway: We’re talking about … Continue reading

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How to stick out like a duck-billed platypus

Try to memorize this list: Jump Cut Run Fly Duck-billed platypus Read Build Lay Now look away. Which entries do you remember? If you’re like most people, there’s one you’ll definitely remember. For a couple of reasons: It’s a noun … Continue reading

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A persuasion expert’s guide: How to keep your New Year’s Resolutions

Happy New Year! Made any resolutions? Haven’t we all. How do you normally do with yours? Mine last about 10 days… and most of my friends’ don’t last much longer than that. The reason is quite simple: Our behavior is … Continue reading

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Wisdom from my screaming bratty cousin

My favorite niece’s birthday is coming up. And, because she’s my favorite, I decided to organize something special for her. I tried to get the entire family to perform a song she loves. (“Don’t Stop Believing”, by Journey.) Three-part harmonies; … Continue reading

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The hidden link between cults and British yeast extract

Ever heard of Marmite? It’s a thick, dark brown yeast extract. You spread it on toast. It’s a household name inBritainand other “Commonwealth” countries, but very few people from elsewhere in the world have ever heard of it. (Have you … Continue reading

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The CSI myth of persuasion

I like CSI. Specifically, I like the original series that’s set in Vegas. For two reasons. The show’s storylines often present twists on popular culture clichés (like the guy who commits suicide by shooting himself in the head twice). The … Continue reading

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Aristotle’s 2300-year-old persuasion formula

Today: Aristotle’s 2300-year-old formula: The holy trinity of persuasion. In his work “On Rhetoric”, the Greek philosopher Aristotle broke down the art of persuasive speaking (or writing) into 3 fundamental parts. They are: Logos Pathos and Ethos. The three elements … Continue reading

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