What type of appeal is demonstrated by a reaction to a perceived silly question?

The appeal demonstrated by a reaction to a perceived silly question is an Appeal to Ridicule. This type of appeal occurs when someone dismisses an argument or idea by mocking or belittling it, rather than addressing its merits. By labeling a question as "silly," a person can undermine the credibility of the questioner and distract from the core issues being raised.

Using ridicule can be a persuasive technique; it leverages social dynamics where individuals may not want to be seen as agreeing with something that is perceived as foolish or laughable. This tactic shifts the focus away from rational discourse and instead engages emotional reactions, often leading to a dismissal of the argument without proper consideration.

In contrast, the other options involve different strategies. For example, an Appeal to Pity seeks to evoke sympathy without a valid argument, while a Folksy Appeal uses familiarity or charm to connect with the audience, and an Appeal to Flattery involves complimenting the audience or persuading them indirectly through praise. However, they do not adequately capture the mechanism of mockery employed in an Appeal to Ridicule.