A "demagogue" often utilizes rhetoric to appeal to what kind of sentiments in the public?

Boost your GRE vocabulary skills with engaging flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to improve understanding and confidence for the exam!

A demagogue typically harnesses the power of rhetoric to connect with and manipulate the public's feelings and biases, often focusing on common prejudices and emotions. This strategy is rooted in understanding what motivates the masses, such as fear, anger, or pride. By appealing to these sentiments, a demagogue can rally support, create division, or incite action without relying on rational discourse or fact-based argumentation. This approach contrasts sharply with appealing to intellectual concerns, scientific arguments, or critical thinking skills, as those methods emphasize logic and informed debate rather than emotional manipulation. The effectiveness of a demagogue lies in their ability to resonate with the ingrained sentiments of the audience, making option B the most accurate choice.

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