Influence is a natural part of being human. We all do it . . . all the time. Of course, some of us are just naturally better at it than others. And some are more ethical. My favorite Roman, Quintillian, once summed up the essence of rhetorical study (communication and influence, really) as “a good man speaking well” . . . that’s the key to influence studies to, learning to use influence to best advantage in an ethical way for the good of all.

Influence studies has become quite the big thing in business, politics, even seduction studies (yes, the guys learning how to date women study influence . . . as they should).

What about television and film or even simple advertising? How is influence, persuasion, getting what one wants, used in the setups for advertising or commercials or how is it portrayed in drama?

That’s our topic of the moment. What influence do you see in advertising, television, and film? Is it realistic or fanciful? What’s going on in terms of the science of influence? Let’s see what we come up with.

If you wish you may discuss Cialdini’s principles, Rokeach’s BAV model, and/or Maslow’s Hierarchy of Motives in relationship to the piece you have selected. Be sure to provide a link to the image or webpage you are referring to.

For more on Cialdini’s work see Inside Influence Report and Influence at Work.