C. Richard Hofstetter

Definition

C. Richard Hofstetter was a prominent communication scholar known for his contributions to the study of persuasion and ethics in communication. His work often focused on the ethical implications of persuasive techniques, examining how communicators can influence audiences while maintaining integrity and respect for their autonomy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hofstetter emphasized the importance of ethical standards in persuasive communication, urging communicators to consider the potential consequences of their influence.
2. His research highlights the balance between effective persuasion and ethical responsibility, aiming to foster trust between communicators and their audiences.
3. Hofstetter argued that ethical persuasion respects the autonomy of individuals by providing them with truthful information to make informed decisions.
4. He contributed to the development of guidelines for ethical persuasion that are still referenced in contemporary communication studies.
5. Hofstetter's work has influenced how educators teach persuasion, encouraging students to be aware of the ethical implications in their own communication practices.

Review Questions

• How did C. Richard Hofstetter's views on ethical considerations influence the field of persuasive communication?
  • C. Richard Hofstetter's views on ethical considerations greatly influenced the field by emphasizing the need for integrity in persuasive communication. He argued that communicators should be mindful of their ethical responsibilities and the impact their words may have on audiences. This focus on ethics has led to a greater awareness among communicators about respecting audience autonomy and promoting informed decision-making.
• In what ways did Hofstetter propose balancing effective persuasion with ethical responsibilities in communication?
  • Hofstetter proposed balancing effective persuasion with ethical responsibilities by advocating for transparency and truthfulness in communication strategies. He believed that while it is important to persuade audiences, it should never come at the cost of misleading them. By adhering to ethical principles, communicators can build trust and credibility while still achieving their persuasive goals.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of C. Richard Hofstetter's work on modern communication practices regarding ethics in persuasion.
  • C. Richard Hofstetter's work has had a lasting impact on modern communication practices by instilling a strong emphasis on ethics in persuasion among scholars and practitioners alike. His ideas have paved the way for the establishment of ethical guidelines that inform teaching, research, and practical applications in communication today. As a result, communicators are now more equipped to navigate the complexities of persuasion while prioritizing ethical considerations, thus enhancing both effectiveness and responsibility in their interactions.

Related terms

Persuasion: The process of influencing someone's beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors through communication.

Ethics: A set of moral principles that guide a person's behavior or the conducting of an activity, particularly in communication.

Rhetoric: The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, often using figures of speech and other compositional techniques.