The Psychology Behind Politicians' Repetitive Speech: When Less is More

Why do politicians repeat obvious things too many times? Take, for example, the Korean president who will repeatedly mention in his UN speech the North Korean nuclear program as a significant threat. Is it really necessary to say the same thing a hundred times?

This phenomenon can be viewed as a form of manipulation, designed to appear strong and decisive. Historically, a similar strategy was championed by a certain 1930s German politician who famously said that a lie repeated often enough becomes the truth. Nowadays, we see this in our political discourse and even in commercial advertising.

The Psychology of Repetition

People may listen the first time, but some require several more repetitions before they truly register the message. In political settings, these repetitions serve multiple purposes. They reinforce the message and ensure that it sticks in the minds of the audience. In an election debate, where every minute counts, the use of repeated talking points is almost inevitable.

However, there is a fine line between effective and excessive repetition. Too many repetitions can lead to a negative backlash or even boredom. It's a well-understood principle in marketing that repetition works; universities train students in communication to understand and utilize this technique. But there's a limit to how much we can or should rely on it.

Self-conviction and Persuasion

Many politicians, including North Korea's leader, use repetition to persuade themselves of the validity of their statements. By speaking loudly and frequently, they can begin to believe their own rhetoric. This can be a powerful tool, but it runs the risk of becoming inauthentic.

Of course, no one is crazy enough to invade a nuclear power unless they are willing to risk losing cities. So why do these repetitions continue? The answer lies in the psychological impact of repetition. It is easier to remember a message that is repeated multiple times, even if the content itself is not novel.

Conclusion

While it's important for politicians to deliver their messages effectively, they must also be mindful of the risks of over-repetition. A well-crafted speech or message that strikes the right balance between repetition and novelty can be just as powerful as one that is too repetitive. Universities and marketing departments can offer valuable insights into this art, but the key is to use these principles wisely and with integrity.

So, the next time you hear a politician repeat similar points numerous times, think about why they are doing it and whether it's truly necessary. Balance is the key to effective communication.