Language:Misleading and Evasive Tactics

Framing Effects: Definition

A framing effect occurs when different, but logically equivalent, words or phrases cause individuals to alter their preference

Which sounds more appealing?

glass that is "half-full“ glass that is "half-empty”

Framing Effects: Consequences

Redescribing your options sometimes changes your choice.

In short, peoples’ preferences shift due to arbitrary changes in wording.

Framing Effects: Process

Critical Thinking

FACTS and EVIDENCE

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Framing Effects: Why a difference?

When framed as lives SAVED…

people are risk averse so opt for sure savings of 200 lives

When framed as lives LOST…

people are risk seeking so opt to take chance at saving everyone

Framing Effects: Applications

Self-esteem

You earned a B when your friends got a C You earned a B when you friends got an A

Health

The Invisible Killer Memory

Framing Effects: Applications

Morals

Trolley versus Footbridge Other variations

Can you come up with a hypothesis? How to test hypothesis?

Framing Effects: Applications

Emotions Good – Emotions serve as critical rules of thumb

when information is incomplete or too complex Bad – Emotions can render decisions irrational, or

can interfere with decision-making processes

Framing Effects: Applications

Economy

Imagine you are trying to sell a product. Are you better off presenting the customer with a bill that says $96, delivery included; or a price that says Groceries $88, Delivery $8?

Politics

Agenda setting - Framing issues shapes the way the public understands the causes of and the solutions to political events

How would you frame it if…

Framing Effects: What can we do about it?

Bad news - Even people with experience and expertise are not immune to framing effects

Good news - Framing effects can be reduced through detailed processing, such as providing a rationale for your choices

Extra-credit Opportunity

Watch any news program that has “pundits” from both sides of the political debate

Then describe:

(1) What is the issue?

(2) Which side of the issue is each pundit on?

(3) What language does each pundit use?

(4) How does that language favor their side?