Appeal to flattery

Appeal to flattery^[1] (also apple polishing, knob gobbling or wheel greasing) is a fallacy in which a person uses flattery, excessive compliments, in an attempt to win support for their side.

Flattery is often used to hide the true intent of an idea or proposal. Praise offers a momentary personal distraction that can often weaken judgment. Moreover, it is usually a cunning form of appeal to consequences, since the audience is subject to be flattered as long as they comply with the flatterer.

Example:

"Surely a man as smart as you can see this is a brilliant proposal." (failing to accept the proposal is a tacit admission of stupidity)

Appeal to flattery is a specific kind of appeal to emotion.

See also

• Flattery
• Superficial charm
• Sycophancy

References