Lecture on Speaking Ethics

Introduction

• Discussion on the ethical responsibilities of a speaker.
• Importance of honesty and belief in one's message.

Ethical Use of Sound Evidence

Definition of Sound Evidence

• Must come from credible sources.
• Should be proven by fact if possible.

Criteria for Credible Sources

• Track record for accuracy.
• Audience perception of the source's credibility is crucial.
  • Example: Billy Graham vs. Howard Stern
  • Credibility is subjective and depends on the audience.

Proven by Fact

• Evidence alone does not prove a point.
• Example: A staged crime scene can have misleading evidence.
• Importance of reasoning combined with evidence to reach conclusions.

Employing Valid Reasoning

• Ethical responsibility to take the audience through the reasoning process.
• Evidence and reasoning must be combined for valid conclusions.
• Transparency in the reasoning process builds audience trust.

Avoidance of Plagiarism

Definition and Consequences

• Presenting another's work or ideas as one's own.
• Can lead to academic and professional penalties.

Importance in Speech

• Unlike written work, speech benefits from citing credible sources.
• Citing experts enhances the speaker’s credibility.
• Fear of citing sources is unfounded as it strengthens the argument.

Conclusion

• Ethical responsibilities differ from other professions.
• Adhering to ethics maintains audience trust and credibility.
• Violation of ethics can lead to loss of current and future audiences.