Final answer:
The key difference between passive agreement and immediate action in persuasive speeches is that the former seeks to change or reinforce beliefs, whereas the latter urges the audience to take specific, urgent actions based on those beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The goals of persuasive speeches can vary depending on whether the speaker seeks passive agreement or immediate action. When the goal is passive agreement, the speaker is looking to convince the audience to accept a particular viewpoint or policy without necessitating immediate, direct action. Here, the idea is to alter the audience's perspective or reinforce their existing beliefs, aiming for a shift in thought rather than behavior. In contrast, persuasive speeches aimed at immediate action seek to compel the audience to take concrete steps and act upon their convictions. This form of persuasion is more urgent and invokes a sense of duty or immediate necessity. Speakers will often employ strong rhetorical strategies combining logos (logic), pathos (emotion), and ethos (credibility) to achieve their goal of prompting action. This kind of speech aligns well with causes that require quick resolution or active support, such as political or social campaigns. Both forms of persuasion are valuable in their corresponding contexts. Passive agreement is key for long-term belief and value changes, whereas immediate action is crucial for achieving urgent objectives or catalyzing movements. Effective persuasive speakers understand the difference and tailor their approach accordingly, knowing when it is necessary to rally their audience towards action versus when it is more appropriate to aim for a conceptual shift in their mindset.