How we change what others think, feel, believe and do

Appeal to Pity

Disciplines > Argument > Fallacies > Appeal to Pity

Description | Discussion | Example | See also

Description

Please feel so sorry for me or my cause that you agree with me.

Gain agreement by sympathy or empathy. Show how you have a deserving cause. Get the other person to put themselves in your shoes and see your sorry plight. Use pictures, testimonies, and other evidence, all turned to your purpose.

Example

I have hurt my leg. Can you drive, please?

Just look at these pictures of the children. Can you donate something to help them?

I haven't completed my work as my dog just died.

Discussion

Appeal to Pity often uses values as emotional levers to gain compliance. This can be particularly powerful, as it is a strong social force. It is about 'being good' and can easily lead to further commitment.

Classification

Appeal, Relevance

Also known as

Ad Misericordiam, Appeal to Sympathy