Effects of Humor and Rudeness on Judges' Decisions or 'Take My Judge Please.'
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| Title: | Effects of Humor and Rudeness on Judges' Decisions or 'Take My Judge Please.' |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Crawford, C. B. |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 19 |
| Publication Date: | 1994 |
| Document Type: | Opinion Papers Speeches/Meeting Papers |
| Descriptors: | Debate, Higher Education, Humor, Persuasive Discourse, Public Speaking, Speech Communication |
| Abstract: | The presentation strategies used in debates are as often a factor in the outcome as the content. Rudeness and humor are important considerations in examining the effect of various delivery styles at either the National Debate Tournament (NDT) or the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) debate. J. H. Howe has elaborated on some of the reasons that humor has not been used much in debates: (1) the NDT tradition has highly emphasized the used of evidence; and (2) debaters perceive an inadequacy in the use of humor. Howe best summarized his feelings on the issue of humor in 1981: "Above all, what the author believes to be an essential aspect of audience debating is the use of humor. As a factor of attention, humor has few equals." Other research suggests that humor should be personalized to the situation and should be used in situations where a debater can boost his or her credibility. Also, debaters should avoid humor that employs the "ad hominem" attack. Most critics would consider personal attacks as rude behavior. V. Patterson and D. Zarefsky contend that when faced with a less skilled opponent debaters should avoid being rude or arrogant. Also, M. Pfau, D. Thomas and W. Ulrich argue that sarcastic or overbearing treatment of an opponent is inappropriate conduct as far as most judges are concerned. Displaying a humane side is a more appropriate style. (Contains 15 references.) (TB) |
| Entry Date: | 1995 |
| Accession Number: | ED378614 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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