What is the term for a persuasive tactic that preys on the emotional responses of the audience?

The term for a persuasive tactic that preys on the emotional responses of the audience is emotional appeal. This approach seeks to elicit strong feelings from the audience, such as fear, happiness, anger, or compassion, in order to persuade them to accept a viewpoint or take a specific action. Emotional appeal can be particularly effective because it connects with the audience on a personal level, making the message resonate more deeply.

By tapping into emotions, speakers and writers can influence their audience's thoughts and behaviors without relying solely on facts or logical reasoning. This strategy may involve storytelling, vivid imagery, or powerful language that draws on the audience's values and experiences. Understanding how emotional appeal works is crucial for both creating persuasive communications and critically evaluating the effectiveness of messages one encounters.