Mel White, Jerry Falwell, and Homosexuality

Jerry Falwell is a very influential "Christian" figure in out society today. Being in a position to influence Falwell uses persuasion techniques such as agitation and control, and guilt appeal. Falwell states that "God continues to lift the curtain and allow the enemies of America to give us probably what we deserve" (The Washington Post, 2001). Falwell uses a higher power, God to justify his statement. Agitators petition the sources of power such as God. Falwell’s point is to rise up people and get people's attention. 

Falwell also stated that “Homosexuality is Satan's diabolical attack upon the family that will not only have a corrupting influence upon our next generation, but it will also bring down the wrath of God upon America” (Washington Post, 2001). Throughout Falwell’s video interviews he continually points the finger at homosexuals, agitating not only them but many other groups such as GLAAD, and the ACLU. Not only does Falwell agitate others to get a point but he also uses guilt appeal. Guilt “usually comes form a realization that we have violated some rule or code of conduct but can reduce the guilt by atonement or punishment” (Larson, 2007). In Falwell’s interview about 9/11 he states that it is because of homosexuals, feminist groups, and other "morally bankrupt" individuals that we were attacked. Falwell points out that homosexuality is wrong, and he tries to persuade people by focusing on their guilt.