Levinson On The Difference Between Facts And Inferences

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Levinson has another concept which can help with the notion that language habits and behaviors need to happen in our society. Levinson talks about statements which are false/inferences. There is a distinct difference to be noted and not considered the same; “Individuals who bring exaggerated fears to life difficulties could benefit greatly by learning how to distinguish the difference between facts and inferences. Some of these differences include the following: Statements of fact are made after the observation of experience, are confined to what one observes or experiences, and represent a high degree of probability. Statements of inference are made anytime-before, during, or after observation, go beyond what one observes or experiences and …show more content…

As with “illegal aliens” or “undocumented workers” there is a tendency towards racism in America, and everyone that looks a somewhat different is automatically inferred with some sort of negative implication. Aside from the need to change language habits and behaviors, an attitude change is also needed for the American society. This change can bring about harmony to this globe we inhabit, and peace is of desperate need in these times of war. Timothy Borchers and his finding speak about culture and society and how they are affected by persuasive discourse. “Human being will abuse power when they have it”. Unfortunately, the society which is prevalent now in these recent years have an undertone of racism embedded in messages, when speaking about particular subjects. In American society, racism has been a factor in the history of the country and in the growth of the country as well. It was not too long ago that racism became illegal however, people in the society still believe that there is as superior race, and anyone not in that category of race is considered a lesser member of society. It is fair to assume that people in higher position of power, which give news and information to the public, might have a member to some extent who is racist. This has major implication in …show more content…

Persuasion is the answer, it is the important tool that a person must employ when trying to speak to an audience, and talking about changing habits and behaviors in language. Dillard. James Price, and Lijiang Shen published work in a persuasion handbook regarding theory and practices and they talk about how to engage with a public when trying to convince them about a particular subject. “Fazio’s Motivation and Opportunities as Determinants (MODE) model attempts to capture this difference between deliberative and more spontaneous behavior”. Motivation and Opportunity are key elements which are necessary to try and attempt to have people change their views regarding particular notions. In other words incentive, this is another key element, if society is informed that if language habits and behaviors are not changed, then dire consequences will occur, which will be seen in future generations in a matter which displaces hatred towards other members of races. Society should strive to break the chain of ignorance which has shackled them throughout generations. Even though great movements have been made which allow for more freedom and expression of all people, it is still not enough, it is apparent with the use of interchangeable words like discussed here as “illegal aliens”