Chapter 2: Ethical Listenining

According to the text, what is the ethical responsibility of a listener in a speech class?

• To offer constructive criticism to the speaker.

• To engage in a debate with the speaker after the speech.

• To provide respectful attention and support to the speaker.

• To interrupt the speaker if they disagree with their points.

What does the text argue is the importance of free speech in a democratic society?

• It allows for the expression of diverse opinions, even if they are unpopular.

• It ensures that only the most eloquent speakers are heard.

• It guarantees that all speakers will be treated equally.

• It prevents the government from censoring any speech.

The text mentions that some kinds of speech are not protected under the First Amendment. Which of the following is NOT an example of speech that is not protected?

• Expressing personal opinions on political matters.

• Making false statements that damage someone's reputation.

• Inciting an audience to commit illegal acts.

The text emphasizes the importance of not judging a speech based on the speaker's personal characteristics. What specific example does it use to illustrate this point?

• It cites the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

• It mentions the National Communication Association's Credo for Ethical Communication.

• It draws a comparison between judging a book by its cover and judging a speech by the speaker.

• It highlights the historical suppression of certain speakers based on their gender or social status.

According to the text, what is the primary ethical responsibility of a listener when encountering a speaker with whom they disagree?

• To challenge the speaker's arguments with evidence and logic.

• To interrupt the speaker and share their own perspective.

• To remain silent and avoid engaging with the speaker's ideas.

• To express their disagreement respectfully and avoid personal attacks.

The text discusses the potential for suppressing certain ideas in the name of societal protection. What historical examples does it provide to illustrate the dangers of this approach?

• It highlights the limitations on free speech in the context of hate speech, defamation, and threats of violence.

• It cites the silencing of women in public speaking until the 1840s, the suppression of labor organizers in the 1890s, and the obstruction of civil rights leaders in the 1960s.

• It mentions the restrictions on free speech during wartime, the censorship of artistic expression, and the suppression of dissenting voices in authoritarian regimes.

The text argues that listeners have a responsibility to be attentive and courteous during a speech. What specific nonverbal behaviors does it suggest as a way to demonstrate this responsibility?

• Taking notes on the speaker's main points, asking clarifying questions, and engaging in active listening.

• Avoiding distractions, minimizing interruptions, and respecting the speaker's time.

• Fist pumping into the air aggressively throughout the entire speech.

• Maintaining eye contact with the speaker, showing support through facial expressions, and sitting up straight.

The text emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting a speaker's message before evaluating it. What does it suggest as the ultimate goal of listening to a speech?

• To reach an informed judgment about the speech based on the evidence and reasoning presented.

• To identify the speaker's biases and prejudices.

• To determine whether the speaker is credible and trustworthy.

• To persuade the speaker to adopt the listener's own perspective.

According to the text, what is the main argument against suppressing certain ideas, even if they are considered dangerous or offensive?

• The text argues that changing the mind of your audience is unethical because it is a form of brainwashing, and brainwashing ultimately leads to a dictatorship.

• The text argues that suppressing ideas, even those deemed dangerous or offensive, ultimately leads to the repression of minority viewpoints and unpopular opinions, ultimately hindering the progress of a democratic society.

• The text states that to determine whether the speaker is credible and trustworthy, you must first try to gather if they had made an inappropriate comment on a specific race or minority.

  
  

How can you improve your listening skills?

• By talking more

• By practicing active listening

• By avoiding eye contact

• By thinking about something else