Persuasion Tells
Short Definition
Observable language and behavior patterns that signal cognitive dissonance, identity defense, or emotionally driven persuasion.
Expanded Description
Borrowing from poker "tells," Adams applies the concept to argument dynamics: how people respond can reveal more than their explicit claims. In his teaching, tells help identify when reasoning is replaced by scripted defense or narrative protection.
Common examples include absolutist reframing, subject-switching, repeated misinterpretation, incoherence under pressure, and emotionally escalating replies.
Persuasion Insight
Tells shift analysis from content alone to psychological context, helping observers infer incentives and commitment strength behind a message.
Related Concepts
Source Note
This is a recurring livestream teaching framework across 2017-2025, with episode-based demonstrations.