Disscussion Q 2: Man vs. Woman

There are definitely some distinct differences betweens the male and female genders. One of these differences is the way men and women operate their brain. The brain of a female excels in verbal tasks while a males brain is wired with better visual-spacial and mathematical abilities. Women prefer talking while men prefer action as a result of their brain schemes. This affects communication abilities as a result. Psychologists have done some extensive research on language between men and women, and in the last few decades, there have been significant results differentiating the communication skills of the two sexes. But there are also many myths and stereotypes that can be misleading, such as "women talk too much." But bottom line, the females brain tends to make more use of its capacity for empathy and communication, while the males brain tends to exploit the ability to analyze complex systems. Obviously this isn't the case with every man and woman. But I do believe that men and woman can speak the same language, they just communicate it differently based on how their brains function.

Discussion Q 1: Judgement

For many, it is difficult to listen to others; to take in what they have to say, and accept their views even when they don't agree. Everyone has their own opinions based on personal experiences and environmental exposure. Some people are able to connect with each other easier than others, which is usually a result of similar views and other aspects such as age, culture, etc. But two people who come from two completely different perspectives, it can be difficult for them to understand eachother and find a common ground. This is where judgement usually come into play. Especially when ignorance is thrown into the mix. A very important part of communication is the ability to understand or be open minded to learn about a different perspective, even if one doesn't agree with it personally. Obviously people make their own judgements regardless, and I believe its important to do so at appropriate times, for example, when safety is a concern. But in order to gain knowledge and adapt to new societies and cultures, it is so important to put oneself in someone elses shoes, and take the time to understand where that person is coming from. In doing so, I think a great deal of judgement and stereotyping is avoided.

Discussion Question 3 Toulmin Model

The Evaluating Public Communication chapter covered many factors concerning the importance of  capturing an audience with a strong argument. In addition to this, the chapter also explained the steps necessary in order to a deliver a successful case or argument in a speech with six important steps. This is where the Toulmin Model comes into play. The claim, the qualifier, the data, the warrant, the backing, and the rebuttal or reservation. It's important to follow this model because it pushes the speaker to really prepare themselves, check their facts, and overall earn their credibility. Missing only one of these steps would throw everything off, as it is important to properly execute a speech including each key factor. As a result, the speaker builds validity by stating a solid claim and providing the facts to support it. In reverse, it is smart for an audience to be familiar with the Toulmin model so they are also able to properly assess a speaker and discern whether their claim holds credibility or not. Therefore, by using the Toulmin method, the speaker and audience will see effective results.

Discussion Question 2: Image, credibility, and power

When I think of a well known speaker such as President Obama, there are many characteristics contributing to his strength as a speaker. In order to win over an audience, and in this case, America is the audience, the speaker needs to have not just one key attribute but a few very important factors. A physical attractiveness, a sense of credibility, and a source of power are all needed in winning an audiences favor. Starting with physical factor, a speakers outer appearance is what everyone automatically evaluates. It is our human nature to be drawn towards beauty, and with a an appealing surface, an audience tends to draw their attention to what the speaker has to say. An audience also wants an orator they feel they can trust, which is where credibility comes into play. When a speaker presents himself as a trustworthy, knowledgable individual, it is very easy for people to respond well. Because the fact of the matter is, whether the speaker is actually credible or not, there is a great number of people who live as "followers" and tend not to discern according to their own knowledge and experience. They just want to have their needs met. This concept definitely applies to many Americans. And finally, and audience also responds well when the speaker presents themselves as a powerful and successful individual. People don't want to listen to someone who lacks confidence and success, because if the speaker doesn't hold his or her own power, how do they expect lead any other aspect or group of people for that matter? This being said, it is seen that all 3 attributes of image, credibility, and power, which Obama expressed, won the votes of his audience.

Discussion Question 1: Influential Speakers, and Junk Adjusters

The most influential speaker for me would have to be Steve Irwin, the legendary and sadly deceased Crocodile Hunter. I watched his show religiously growing up. I was always entranced by his crazy reptile catching abilities and at the same time, his clear passion and respect for animals and nature. His enthusiasm made his show entertaining and educational at the same time. Whether he was wresting huge crocodiles or catching tiny frogs, his excitement was infectious especially since I share the same excitement towards reptiles. I learned a lot from Steve Irwin, and as a kid, the Crocodile Hunter was the perfect show for teaching me the importance of conservation, which Irwin was also passionate about. When children love something, they want to respect it. And thats what Steve Irwin instilled in me.
The worst speaker I ever heard was this boy in my high school in my AP English class. This boy didn't have an issue with nervousness or even delivery with his speeches or presentations. No, on the contrary, he was actually an alright public speaker. There was one main problem though, he would constantly adjust his junk not only in class, but when he was presenting in front of the class!! So There you have it. I'm sorry, but anyone who grabs his or her crotch when delivering a speech wins the worst speaker award.

Chapter 2 Question 2: Playing Games

As I read the section of chapter 2 regarding the Pragmatic perspective, I couldn't help but think of the dating world. The concept of communication being played as a game is definitely something I have experienced through dating various people in the last year. I don't necessarily have a "type" and have dated many different types of people. but despite the many differences, I have noticed many similar patterns between polar opposite people. And these patterns are through communication.
I have noticed the same thing with building friendships as well. The older I get, the easier it is for me to understand and read other people. In addition, when I am am honest with myself and others, and don't waste time bullshitting around, that is when I am able to pick out other solid and likeminded people. In many cases, people much older than me have assumed that I am in my mid 20's when I am in fact at the tender age of 19. The biggest factor of this seems to be through the art of communication and recognizing patterns in social interactions just like the pragmatic perspective suggests.

Ch 2 Discussion Question 1

          When I read the social constructionist section of chapter 2, I found that it does indeed hold a different perspective in relation to communication. I can think of many examples where the concept of social construction is true. Media plays a huge role in this concept, as almost every single American has some sort of access to magazines, television, internet etc. And with a society such as America, with technologies and media rapidly evolving everyday, many people spend more time in front of a TV or computer screen and listen to media instead of going out and creating their own experiences in the world. For all we can fathom, China doesn't exist until we go their and experience it for ourselves. We can see pictures of China, we can hear what our friends who have traveled there tell us, we can even watch videos and assume that of course China is a real country.
          Even my best friend, who is from West Virginia, has to explain time and time again how different the culture is in California to her friends and family who have never been here. Even though we're still in America, life is extremely different for people even in different cities. Beverly Hills and Compton are two examples of this concept. Cultural diversity, geographic locations, and various social classes can create distinct differences in communication. It can be easy for miscommunication to occur when people from two different back rounds come together, based on these distinctions. As the books suggests for us to be able to follow cultural rules and norms and at the same time abandon unfair or outmoded ways of communication. Considering this I feel that the most effective way to communicate is to be adaptable and understanding of the various diverse societies in our world.

Power of Humor

An influential speaker has a tantalizing way of capturing the attention of his or her audience. Charisma, clarity, and confidence all play an important role with the art of captivation. But to me, a technique that isn't always included in a speech-a dry and painfully sloth-like speech to specify- is the art of comedy. It's human nature to perk up when one hears an unexpected silly word or subtle joke. In psychology today, there are many articles referencing humor and laughter's importance in society, especially in the sense that humor is inhibited by speech, and as a result, connects people in a distinct way. From my personal experiences, and outstanding number of people that give off a gloom or even harsh first impression, all of a sudden open up or soften their hard shells when I crack a joke. It is amazing to see the advantages that this character trait brings. I have literally attained best friends, opportunities, and jobs as a result of my humor. Not to toot my own horn or anything, but I really do take pride in this. And although it may seem like a minor and possibly irrelevent idea, I know gift of humor is one of the most powerful ways of communication.
So in light of this, I would have to say that a speaker I truly admire would definitely have to be the comedian and writer Chelsea Handler. If you've ever seen her show "Chelsea Lately," or stand up, you may find her to be a bit raunchy, but good God that woman is talented. The reason I say this is probably because when I read many of her books, they were the literally the fasted books I have ever read. Mind you I'm not a huge reader. But for once in my life, my attention was finally captured for more then 5 minutes, and I didn't find myself needing to read the same sentences 3 times in a row. A little back round on Chelsea Handler, who came from a dysfunctional family of 8, and was running her own babysitting business and handling her older brothers financial affairs at 9. It takes a great amount of intelligence to have great humor, and as I'd like to think I'm pretty damn funny, that might be wishful thinking as Handler really takes the cake. She's not only a master of the technique pathos, in the way that she brings tears of joy and urine to her audiences and readers. (OK so I haven't personally peed my pants as a result of humor but I know many other people have!) But she is also freakishly gifted in the usage of ethos and logos as well. Her friends and family describe her insane talent of being to persuade anyone and everyone of the most outlandish lies and stories. She has literally tricked many people into believing a joke, forget about it, and have her victims still persuaded in her favor 6 months later. Time and time again, Chelsea has succeeded to convince her closest loved ones and even employees of some really dumb stuff. Just a few examples, she convinced her friends to evacuate a hotel because it was flooding, she convinced her (same)boyfriend she was pregnant 4 times, and convinced dozens of strangers that they would get to meet Carol King if they entered a lottery at her lemonade stand when she was 9.
Now, again you may find this to be a random example of one of my favorite speakers, but as I find humor to be one of the most effective tactics for communication, it would only be appropriate that I look to Chelsea Handler as one of my greatest influences.