A Peculiar Phenomenon

Stage fright is a peculiar phenomenon. Dreading to address an audience is so prevalent amongst humans it’s practically in our genes. How did it get there, though? Did evolution give us the instincts to fear public speaking after an ‘X’ number of talkative cavemen were clubbed to death? However the trend came to existence, I too am affected by its power. I may not freeze up or pass out like some other afflicted individuals, but I do get tongue-tied, and develop a slight speech impediment. Despite the universal loathing of speeches, (excluding a few eccentric communications majors,) it’s something we all have to do, and do well if we want to get anywhere in life.

Someone with mediocre intelligence but superb verbal skills has a far better chance of succeeding than an uncommunicative genius. By being a good speaker, you’re also a good persuader. This paper is about my own brief history with public speaking, and where I’d like it to go with it.

The first “real” speech I gave was in Mrs. Platteter’s fourth grade social studies class. She taught us students various historical Wisconsin figures, and we had to act them out for our friends and family. I remember feeling vaguely nervous, but mostly proud to represent Edna Ferber, one of our state’s first female authors. Portraying a character, in my mind, is far easier then presenting a speech. It’s less personal, for one thing. As an actor you can hide behind the role you’re playing, but that’s not an option for orators. Those blank stares from the spectators are enough to make anyone feel vulnerable.

Giving lectures came up repeatedly in middle and high school. Mrs. Harmon, Keeble, and Beback were particularly fond of torturing their students with speeches. It wasn’t until environmental science class that I saw any actual use for them. Mr. Bunton would divide us into different teams, and assign topics to create powerpoint presentations on. It was an excellent way to exchange information, and made me realize the potential great speakers possessed.

In mass lecuture on Monday, we heard about some influential communicators. Dictators use brute force, but their ability to persuade is where the power really resides. Adolf Hitler coerced Germany to do what they did with his commanding message of hatred and racism. Many politicians are corrupt but enigmatic, mystifying us common folk. With ethos, pathos, and logos, you can manipulate people to do pretty much anything.

Mass communication has done a great deal of good too. Martin Luther King Junior’s incredible voice has uplifted millions. Power can be beneficial for everyone, if used responsibly.

I’m not entirely sure where I want to go life, but all of my preferred options involves communications to at least a small extent. If I continue with my major in natural resource management, I will have to verbalize what’s happening to the environment, and how we should change it. In order to be a good psychologist, I need to effectively speak with patients. International relations, journalism, pop star, (just kidding,) anthropology… every career I’m interested in has communications. This class will help me succeed in any one that I choose. (Or all, which may be the case.)

Required classes stink, but I can see why people should get over stage fright. This particular peculiar phenomenon is one we’re better off without. Thank you for showing us how. Now if you could help me with this other thing I have…