Diction betrays bias. In our constant search for reliable sources for information and insight, the fairness displayed through word choice seems to go a long way to build trust in a commentator. While reading two blogs this week debating the seriousness of America's current level of debt, I was made quickly aware of each author's views by their word choice and the methods employed to drive their point home.
The Maddow Blog, while making a largely balanced presentation of facts, resorted at times to loaded diction making reference to a recent moment when "the deficit scolds were doing their scolding". It is true enough that her more so conservative counterparts have shown few reservations in vocalizing their misgivings and concerns pertaining to this most significant issue. Referring to them as "deficit scolds", however, could likely be a debated title. Her post was persuasive in it's facts but tainted by bias.
I also read through John Culberson's blog. The bulk of his article appealed to Logos through the presentation of facts and figures. He did deviate as well, although in my estimation less dramatically, from a pure and objective approach by simply stating the truth that it is "borrowed money" that is keeping us alive. The statement, which really is only restating the obvious, carries a subtle bite which I would imagine is meant to jolt his readers, if even slightly, to a new level of alertness. Largely, he succeeded in making an objective presentation of the current political landscape as it can been seen.
While refined rhetoric is certainly legal in the battle of ideas, the regularity of questionable tactics has grown to a dramatic volume in recent years. It seems to me of the utmost importance that we the American people grow widely proficient at sifting through the emotional appeals and loaded diction to spot fallacies and make established, rational decisions.
Does loaded language bother you or is it okay?
http://maddowblog.msnbc.com/news/2013/01/11/16463952-on-debt-reduction-us-is-nearly-finished?lite
http://www.texasgopvote.com/issues/gro-economy/america-s-looming-debt-crisis-004800
In regards to loaded diction used in an argument, I believe that it is overused and usually puts one of the parties ahead of the other. This lead is not always earned by the more knowledgable party, it is frequently gained by the individuals who are capable of using convincing language to make their point. This is more often than not a dramatic attempt to make their opinion known which is not always the most reliable argument.
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