Hi Peter,
It's 4 in the morning here in Italy - I can't sleep as I am still on California time, I just got back from visiting my family over there. Also the reason why you haven't seen me around for a while - I didn't have internet access. I really appreciate the fact that you noticed I haven't been posting recently...
Man, I fell right into your philosophical trap! Hook, line, and sinker!
Now you are asking me to walk the razor's edge...
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Peter Do you see anything wrong with the claim: "If you follow the techniques Tony Robbins teaches, your life will change for the better"? |
Well, here's my $0.02 for what it's worth...
The self-help phrase mentioned above isn't necessarily wrong, it has to be viewed in its whole context. I am not familiar enough with Tony Robbin's whole process to give any judgement. It's impossible to be black and white with such an argument, there are an infinite number of gray zones in between.
Going back to Marlon, he backs up his strong claims and product with a "triple your money back guarantee" - he makes it real clear that if it falls short (after you give it an honest go) - you will get your money back and more. This should satisfy even the most brain dead potential customer, and eliminate even the strictest self righteous moral complainers. I love how he does that. What is there to complain about? He turns it into a complete no brainer.
I think the gray zones start turning darker shades when innocence is preyed upon by the use of very well thought out psychological manueverings and almost cultish brainwashing kind of techniques. The use of hierarchy plays strong in this, and so does guilt trips - this is subtle, and not easy for me to explain in a post on a forum, but I know it when I see it.
I don't think it is possible to give a straight answer to your question, but I do feel that such phrases should be dealt with caution.
What would be your reaction to such a phrase:
" Come pray with us at XYZ Church... It will change your life for the better! Here's a list of our testimonials..."
Now, if you were open minded enough not to judge it on face value, and actually give it a go, then you would have a much better idea as to what this particular church was all about. If you dive in head first without testing the waters, your life could very well change, but who's guaranteeing that it will be for the better?
Touchy subject, isn't it?
Tim