The book review by Paul Nelissen provides an overview of "The Persuasion Handbook: Developments in Theory and Practice," edited by Dillard and Pfau. The handbook is a comprehensive resource that covers the scientific study of persuasion, spanning over 34 chapters across seven sections. Each section delves into different aspects of persuasion, from basic issues to specific contexts and media influences. The editors highlight the historical development of persuasion theory, emphasizing its dynamic nature and the integration of insights from various disciplines.
The review notes that the handbook is well-structured and standardized, with each contributor providing a clear introduction to their topic, including critiques and future research directions. The content is divided into sections that cover foundational theories, emotional influences, message features, contextual factors, social consequences of persuasion campaigns, and the role of media. While the handbook offers a broad and balanced perspective, it is noted that the dominant focus on the persuader's perspective may overlook the importance of being persuaded in everyday life. The review concludes by praising the handbook as a valuable resource for students and scholars, highlighting its robust and vibrant state of research and its potential for continued growth.The book review by Paul Nelissen provides an overview of "The Persuasion Handbook: Developments in Theory and Practice," edited by Dillard and Pfau. The handbook is a comprehensive resource that covers the scientific study of persuasion, spanning over 34 chapters across seven sections. Each section delves into different aspects of persuasion, from basic issues to specific contexts and media influences. The editors highlight the historical development of persuasion theory, emphasizing its dynamic nature and the integration of insights from various disciplines.
The review notes that the handbook is well-structured and standardized, with each contributor providing a clear introduction to their topic, including critiques and future research directions. The content is divided into sections that cover foundational theories, emotional influences, message features, contextual factors, social consequences of persuasion campaigns, and the role of media. While the handbook offers a broad and balanced perspective, it is noted that the dominant focus on the persuader's perspective may overlook the importance of being persuaded in everyday life. The review concludes by praising the handbook as a valuable resource for students and scholars, highlighting its robust and vibrant state of research and its potential for continued growth.