What type of appeal is Politician B using when they imply that listening to Politician A is an exercise in ignorance?

The correct answer highlights the nature of Politician B's rhetorical strategy, which revolves around dismissing the ideas and viewpoints of Politician A by characterizing them as ignorant. This approach is identified as an appeal to ridicule because it seeks to undermine an opponent by making them appear foolish or less knowledgeable to the audience.

By framing the act of listening to Politician A as an exercise in ignorance, Politician B is essentially mocking or belittling their opponent's credibility. This tactic can shift the audience’s perception, steering them away from rational debate and focusing instead on a negative portrayal of Politician A. The effectiveness of this appeal lies in its emotional impact, as it can foster a sense of superiority among the audience while simultaneously discrediting Politician A without presenting substantial counterarguments.

In rhetoric, using ridicule as a persuasive technique can influence public opinion by appealing to emotions rather than logic, which is evident in this scenario.