Frans de Waal on low frequency audio as a social instrument: "The host, Larry King, would adjust his timbre to that of high-ranking guests, like Mike Wallace or Elizabeth Taylor. Low-ranking guests, on the other hand, would adjust their timbre to that of King. The clearest adjustment to King's voice, indicating lack of confidence, came from former Vice President Dan Quayle." (via mr)
There are 6 reader comments
• Oct 18 2005 • 4:27PM
This guy teaches at my old college.
• Oct 18 2005 • 4:43PM
His name's spelled Frans, by the way.
• Oct 18 2005 • 4:50PM
Interesting stuff. He talked about this at the 92nd Street Y last week.
• Oct 18 2005 • 4:56PM
His name's spelled Frans, by the way.
So it is. Changed. Thanks!
• Oct 18 2005 • 6:00PM
I think I use this to deal with people all the time -- and not just in deference!
This thread is closed to new comments. Thanks to everyone who responded.
Arthur Davidson Ficke • Oct 18 2005 • 4:25PM
In what universe is Elizabeth Taylor a "high-ranking guest"?