Meaning: The quote "What convinces is conviction. Believe in the argument you're advancing. If you don't you're as good as dead. The other person will sense that something isn't there, and no chain of reasoning, no matter how logical or elegant or brilliant, will win your case for you" by Lyndon Johnson, the 36th President of the United States, highlights the importance of conviction and belief in one's argument. Johnson's words emphasize the crucial role of confidence and belief in successfully conveying a point of view or persuading others. This quote draws attention to the significance of genuine conviction in effectively communicating and advocating for one's position.

Conviction, in the context of argumentation and persuasion, refers to a strong belief in the validity and truth of one's position. It involves a deep sense of confidence and commitment to the ideas being presented. When a person is genuinely convinced of the argument they are advancing, it permeates their communication and interaction with others. This conviction can be sensed by the audience, influencing their reception of the message being conveyed.

Belief in the argument being advanced is portrayed as a fundamental element for success in persuasion. Johnson's assertion that without belief, one is "as good as dead" emphasizes the idea that lack of conviction can render an argument ineffective. It suggests that without genuine belief in one's position, the argument lacks the essential vitality and strength needed to sway others. This aligns with the understanding that authenticity and sincerity play a crucial role in influencing others' perspectives.

The quote also touches upon the intuitive aspect of human interaction. Johnson suggests that the other person will sense when something is lacking in the argument being presented. This insight underscores the importance of non-verbal cues, emotional resonance, and the overall aura of conviction that accompanies genuine belief. It implies that persuasion is not solely reliant on the logical or rational aspects of an argument, but also on the emotional and intuitive responses it evokes.

Furthermore, Johnson's words highlight the limitations of pure reasoning and logic in the absence of genuine conviction. He asserts that no matter how logical, elegant, or brilliant a chain of reasoning may be, it cannot compensate for the absence of belief and conviction. This notion challenges the commonly held belief that the strength of an argument lies solely in its logical coherence and rational structure. Instead, it emphasizes the indispensable role of genuine conviction in complementing and enhancing the effectiveness of reasoning and logic.

In conclusion, Lyndon Johnson's quote encapsulates the essence of effective persuasion and argumentation. It underscores the paramount importance of conviction and belief in successfully advocating for a position. By emphasizing the impact of genuine conviction and the intuitive perception of others, Johnson's words provide valuable insights into the art of persuasion and the essential role of authenticity and belief in influencing others.