Ethics in Public Speaking

Which of the following is the most fundamental principle of ethical public speaking?

• Using persuasive language

• Presenting truthful and accurate information

• Avoiding controversial topics

• Focusing on entertaiment

Why is it important to give credit to your sources in a speech?

• To make your speech longer

• To show off your research skills

• To maintain integrity and avoid plagiarism

• To make the audience trust the sources more than you

If a speaker selectively presents only favorable statistics from a research study while ignoring contradictory data, this violates which principle the most?

• Accountability

• Integrity

• Respect

• Fairness

If a speaker knowingly omits key facts to manipulate the audience, this violates the principle of:

• Respect

• Honesty

• Fairness

• Accountability

Using language that stereotypes a group of people violates which ethical principle?

• Integrity

• Respect

• Honesty

• Fairness

In what scenario might a speaker unintentionally breach ethical guidelines while attempting to build rapport?

• Using self-deprecating humor.

• Sharing an unverified anecdote as factual.

• Encouraging audience participation.

• Simplifying a complex topic for clarity.

What is the ethical responsibility of a speaker when addressing an audience with diverse cultural backgrounds?

• Use humor to connect, even if it risks cultural insensitivity.

• Focus on universal themes and ignore cultural differences.

• Rely on stereotypes to make points relatable.

• Tailor language to avoid cultural biases and foster inclusivity.

Which of the following scenarios best demonstrates ethical accountability during a Q&A session?

• Avoiding difficult questions to stay on schedule.

• Providing speculative answers to appear knowledgeable.

• Admitting when unsure and offering to follow up with verified information.

• Redirecting every question to a related topic in the speech.

Which of the following is an unethical practice in public speaking?

• Ignoring evidence that contradicts your argument

• Practicing your speech to improve delivery

• Using persuasive statistics from a credible source

• Simplifying a complex topic for the audience

A speaker gives misleading information about the benefits of a product during a presentation. This violates which ethical principle?

• Respect

• Honesty

• Fairness

• Integrity