March 11 Debunking Assignment – Taking on Big Shampoo

Debunking Assignment – Big Shampoo

I took this assignment to mean “use persuasive media techniques” more than to factually challenge something.

I shot this with my Iphone while getting my hair done because I like these guys.  And I’ve always wondered what’s the real difference between salon shampoo and the CVS stuff.

I could have read ingredient labels and compared them, scientifically,  for some insight into what these products do.  But I was pressed for time and these salon owners really charmed me, so they made a better story – if not better actual science.

Also – I usually find my hair salons by word of mouth – as I think many people do.

I also thought a video would capture attention – it’s  easy to click through, and done with a little humor would keep me watching.  It was also a way to use a new technique, which I’m trying to do with each assignment.

The logical power of the argument here isn’t very strong; the fun was in making it with these guys.  Go give some business to Salon Continentale in Belmont.  They’ll make you look good.

(Tell a story that makes truth claims about a disputed subject
Using techniques from the Debunking Handbook,
and using what you know about motivated reasoning,
leading with values, persuade a broad audience
– including those hostile to your claims – of the truth of your assertions)