LessonsStates of Assertoric Predication: Purposes of Reports and Three Audience StatesQuiz

The discussion now turns to how much emphasis a speaker should employ when stating a judgment. This depends on the addressee’s stance.

Khālī al-dhihn: not committed or hesitant about the asserted relation; a plain report generally suffices.
Mutaraddid: considering the alternatives and seeking resolution; suitable emphasis is beneficial.
Munkir: rejecting the judgment; reinforcement varies with the strength of denial.

These are categories of rhetorical delivery, not competing criteria for the report’s truth. One true proposition may be expressed differently to these three audiences.

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Three audience states in receiving a report

States of Assertoric Predication: Purposes of Reports and Three Audience States

The discussion now turns to how much emphasis a speaker should employ when stating a judgment. This depends on the addressee’s stance.

Khālī al-dhihn: not committed or hesitant about the asserted relation; a plain report generally suffices.
Mutaraddid: considering the alternatives and seeking resolution; suitable emphasis is beneficial.
Munkir: rejecting the judgment; reinforcement varies with the strength of denial.

These are categories of rhetorical delivery, not competing criteria for the report’s truth. One true proposition may be expressed differently to these three audiences.