MORNING SENTINEL • September 26, 2021
The creator of the New England Clean Energy Connect commercial currently running would have earned an “A” in my messages and media class. One of the most persuasive advertising techniques is “emotional appeal”: manipulating viewers to be fearful of what might happen by using inaccuracies disguised as truth. Writers of this type of ad want to scare viewers into thinking of horrible consequences as a result of a certain action. However, this same student would have received an “F” in the reading comprehension lessons that taught students to separate fact from opinion. The reality is that Question 1 is specific to the Upper Kennebec Valley and high-impact transmission line projects. Not roads, bridges or your back deck. Don’t be fooled by an advertising gimmick used to create fear. ~ Linda Woods, Waterville