In other words: 'The language of attraction' used by pick-up artists. Issue 2 (30th April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dayter, Daria; Rüdiger, Sofia
• Is Part Of: English today. Volume 35:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 13
• Page End: 19
• Publication Date: 2018-04-30
• Subjects: English language -- Periodicals; 420.5
• DOI: 10.1017/S026607841800007X
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-0784

Abstract

Abstract : The idea that speaking in a certain way can make people do things – persuasion on steroids, so to say – is understandably fascinating. This holy grail of communication studies is sought after by 'professional persuaders', politicians and copywriters, but also in non-professional situations. One example of wishful thinking of what is possible when it comes to the power of language is the Pick-up Artist (PUA) paradigm. PUAs are a community of self-designated or aspiring seduction experts; and it should come as no surprise that most members are men. While it is possible for PUAs to meet face-to-face, for example, at workshops organized by the so-called gurus (at no little cost to the students of pick-up), much of the interaction between the members takes place in PUA Internet forums and similar online venues.