4

There's a style that is popular on blogs, and takes the form of a dialogue between the reader and the author, where the author provides both sides of the argument, like a ventriloquist. Often there's a tendency to write the reader's part as being less savvy or intelligent than the author.

[Author], my method is better than yours because blah.

Actually it's not, and here's why.

Woah, I never thought about it that way. But what about blah blah?

Excellent question. Here's the answer, blah blah.

That's amazing! Thanks for enlightening me! Where can I learn more?

You're welcome! You can buy my book at blah blah.


Is there a term for this style, especially the self-complimentary aspect?

1
  • 2
    I have no idea, but don't use it, it's annoying.
    – user5645
    Dec 10, 2014 at 20:50

1 Answer 1

6

The method of laying out ideas in the form of a dialogue where both speakers are written by one author is called dialectic. It has its roots in philosophy and has wide application.

What you're describing sounds like a very poor example of this technique. It uses the form of the dialectic method, but the content is more akin to the FAQ on a commercial website. It posits only the questions for which it has satisfactory answers, and so creates the apperance of a flawless system with no vulnerabilities.

It's a disingenuous form of argument, but quite popular.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.