Knowledge

Knowledge is distinct from opinion in that it is backable by solid evidence.

Mastering talking points and mastering detailed knowledge can both increase influence. The difference is that knowledge could serve either position. Knowledge commands respect regardless of the belief of the messenger.

Knowledge really is power. People listen carefully to experts who seem to know what they are talking about and tune out ignorant-sounding fanatics. Knowledge skills provide evidence with which to back up your ideas. Believing an idea doesn’t necessarily grant you in-depth familiarity with the facts that relate to it. Ideas reflect belief and enthusiasm rather than knowledge and expertise. Until you gain relavent knowledge, ideas are just opinions you can express to make basic “talking points” about it but to back up your statements with detailed arguments and evidence, you need to gain a Knowledge skill that is related.

Understanding the subject matter in detail allows you to cite factual evidence to support your ideas, discredit opposing ideas and counter opposing criticism.

Simulating Knowledge

A relavent knowledge skill may support an idea so that you can add your Knowledge % chance to your communication % chance or against the risk of the idea you are opposing.

If the opposing idea is supported by a Knowledge test also, compare the Knowledge % chances and apply the highest while cancelling the effects of the lowest out.

People with great knowledge can get away with being less opinionated and still hold their own and learn from other points of view.