In the context of persuasion, what is the significance of appealing to external validation?

The significance of appealing to external validation lies in its ability to enhance the argument through the utilization of authority figures or widely accepted beliefs. When a speaker references credible sources, experts, or societal norms, it bolsters their position by providing a foundation of trust and reliability that audience members may relate to. This technique can effectively persuade individuals who respect the authority being cited or who seek confirmation from credible external sources before adopting a stance themselves. By aligning an argument with recognized authorities, it increases the likelihood that the audience will consider the presented ideas as valid and worthy of acceptance, thereby strengthening the overall persuasive impact of the message.