In persuasive communication, what tactic involves portraying an opposing view as exaggerated or misrepresented?

The tactic of portraying an opposing view as exaggerated or misrepresented is known as a Straw Man argument. This rhetorical strategy involves deliberately misrepresenting or oversimplifying an opponent's position, making it easier to attack or refute. By setting up this distorted version of the argument, the communicator can then argue against it, appearing to dismantle the opposing viewpoint without engaging with the actual, more nuanced position. This makes the Straw Man fallacy an effective, although ethically questionable, tactic in persuasive communication, as it can sway audiences by inaccurately framing an argument in a way that is easier to challenge.

In contrast, other tactics mentioned do not focus specifically on misrepresenting an opponent's views. Begging the Question refers to assuming the truth of the very claim being argued without providing evidence. An Ad Hominem attack focuses on attacking the character of the individual making an argument rather than the argument itself. Finally, an Appeal to Emotion seeks to persuade by invoking emotional responses rather than presenting logical reasoning. Each of these communicates differently and does not directly involve the misrepresentation characteristic of a Straw Man argument.