Abstract

The interpretation of natural language depends on the conditions in which the communication takes place. The context, as well as the identity of the interlocutors, the common knowledge (explicit and implicit) and the purposes of the speaker, contribute to determine the interpretation of an utterance, a speech, a problem or dilemma in decision-making, through sophisticated inferential processes and attribution of meaning. We consider in particular the case of the nudge in decision making, as a paradigmatic example of the inevitable implicit orientation of behaviors, determined by the formulation of any textual information, in addition to the specific way of presentation of the decision-making options. Beyond the greater effectiveness of the nudge compared to invitations or outright bans, we are concerned to emphasize the productive, almost creative, aspect of the nudge, that develops in the implicit solicitation of an idea, a behavior. If we consider the case of the nudge as an example of persuasive discourse, it is effective when there are shared assumptions between the proponent and the one who has to decide. If the implicit layer of presuppositions is not shared, the default option has to be able to solicit aspects that may be only partially acceptable, provided they are justified, such as in a process persuasive. The implicit level of knowledge, ideas and expectations renders this possible. As in any effective process of persuasion, assuming an outsider point of view always involves enlarging one's understanding and perception of the world, which in its turn influences our choices.