Page 280 - Essentials of Human Communication

Critically Evaluating Speeches 259

CommuniCating EthiCally

the Ethical Critic

Just as the speaker and the listener have ethical obligations, so does the critic. As you reflect on the suggestions
that follow, consider any additional guidelines that you would like to see critics of public speaking follow (espe-
cially in the classroom). Ethical Choice Point

● The ethical critic separates personal feelings about the speaker from his or her evaluation of the speech. You and your best friend are taking
A liking for the speaker should not lead the critic to give positive evaluations of the speech, nor should a communications course together.
disliking the speaker lead to negative evaluations. Similarly, attitudes toward the speaker’s thesis should Your friend just gave a terrible
not get in the way of fair and objective evaluation. The ethical critic recognizes the validity of an argu- speech, and unfortunately, the
instructor has asked you to offer a
ment even if it contradicts a deeply held belief and, at the same time, recognizes the fallaciousness of critique. The wrinkle here is that the
an argument even if it supports a deeply held belief. instructor’s grades seem to be
● The ethical critic takes responsibility for his or her own thoughts. The best way to express this ownership heavily influenced by what student
is to use I-messages rather than you-messages. Instead of saying, “You needed better research,” say, “I critics say. So in effect your critique
would have been more persuaded if you had used more recent research.” will largely determine your friend’s
● The ethical critic rejects any ethnocentric orientation and doesn’t negatively evaluate customs and grade. You’d like to give your friend
beliefs simply because they differ from her or his own. The ethical critic doesn’t discriminate against or a positive critique so he can earn a
favor speakers simply because they’re of a particular gender, race, affectional orientation, nationality, good grade—which he badly
religion, or age group. needs—and you figure you can
always tell him the truth later and
even help him to improve. What is
your ethical obligation in this situa-
tion? What would you do?

Video Choice Point
Speaking on the Arts
Sue works on the public relations staff of a large art museum and has been asked to speak
to a local women’s group about special programs and classes the museum is offering this season. She
wants to prepare and deliver a speech that will hold the attention of this group of highly educated women
whom the museum sees as potential patrons and to give them a good feeling for the museum. She has
shared her speech with her coworker, Stephanie, who has offered to help Sue refine her words. Sue knows
a lot is riding on her speech to these potential patrons, and she wants to be sure her style and delivery are
on target. She considers the topics covered in this chapter as she contemplates her communication choices.

Watch the video “Speaking on the Arts” at MyCommunicationLab.com

Objectives Self-Check
● Can you evaluate the speeches of others, express constructive critical evaluations, and respond to
criticism openly and with a view toward improvement?

Messages in the Media Wrap Up
As you watch talk show hosts, consider their choice of language and the delivery techniques they use. Ask
yourself why they are effective or ineffective and what you might take from these professionals to make your
own speeches more effective.