Which appeal is employed when a character is ridiculed to promote another character's desirability?

The appeal employed when a character is ridiculed to promote another character's desirability is the Appeal to Ridicule. This form of argument uses mockery or derision to undermine a person or idea, making it seem less appealing or worthy compared to another option. By showcasing the flaws or absurdities of one character through ridicule, the intention is to create a perception that the alternative character is more attractive or desirable in contrast. This technique is often effective in persuasive contexts, especially in propaganda, where the objective is to sway opinions by creating negative impressions of opponents.

In this scenario, the use of ridicule serves to distract from rational evaluation and instead elicits an emotional response that favors one character over another. Such tactics can be prevalent in various forms of media, including advertisements, political discourse, and storytelling, where appeal and attractiveness are crucial elements in shaping audience perceptions and preferences.