Establishing the etymological origin of the word demonstration has to take us to Latin and it derives from demonstratio . This is a term that is composed of several Latin elements:
• The prefix de- , which is used to indicate a separation.
• The verb monstrare , which can be translated as “show”.
• The suffix -cion , which is used as an indication of an action and its effect.
Demo concept
Indicate, point out, show or verify something involves an action known as demonstrating . This activity and its effects are called demonstration .
It is possible to use the idea of demonstration to name a manifestation or exhibition of something. For example: “In another demonstration of its power, the Spanish team overwhelmed the Italian team and won a new edition of the Euro Cup” , “I think that driving such a vehicle in a deprived neighborhood is an obscene demonstration of wealth ” , “ "I will not tolerate another impudent demonstration in this assembly hall."
The term in philosophy
Within the field of philosophy, the term that concerns us now is used with certain frequency and with various meanings. Specifically, we can establish that it is used to indicate these three aspects:
• The verification of either a theory or a specific principle. That is something that would be done by carrying out a series of experiments or through certain facts that are considered true.
• The end of what would become a deductive procedure.
• The proof of something concrete. In this case, it will be carried out based on what are considered to be evident and universal truths.
The demonstration in the emotional field
This term is also often used on an emotional level, in phrases such as "demonstration of affection", "affection", "trust" or "loyalty", for example, to reinforce the meaning of a certain event that records the feelings of one person towards another. « What you did for me was a true demonstration of loyalty, and I will never forget it », « Your demonstration of affection was so moving that no one could hold back tears .»
On a sentimental level, it is considered that, within every couple, it is essential that demonstrations of love occur. And what one of the two members carries out makes the other feel safe, confident and loved within the relationship.
Among the most common and important demonstrations are dedicating time to the other person, preparing a weekend getaway, organizing a romantic dinner at home, giving them some flowers as a surprise...
Demonstrate talent
A demonstration of talent can occur in any discipline , although this phrase is usually used to talk about artists and athletes, since they carry out activities that are easily perceived by the general public.
Although this does not mean that we are all capable of understanding the nuances of a dance movement, or the technical demands of an ornament in a piece of music, at least we know how to spot when it comes to things that we could not do and that has a positive impact on us.
Demonstration as that which proves something
A demonstration, on the other hand, can be something that proves or demonstrates a certain thing. Through demonstrations, therefore, theories or hypotheses can be tested. It is common for demonstrations to be carried out through experiments or laboratory tasks.
Mathematical proofs are made up of logical reasoning that advances from a hypothesis to a statement. Each of these steps must be supported through deduction or another method. It is possible to distinguish between different types of proofs that are often used in mathematics, such as contraposition , reductio ad absurdum , mathematical induction and strong induction .
A sales tactic
Demonstration, finally, can also be a sales tactic to demonstrate the quality or usefulness of a product . The seller who boards a train to offer a set of scissors, to name one possibility, can demonstrate his products and cut paper, cardboard and plastic in front of the passengers. By observing its effectiveness, many people can convince themselves of the convenience of taking advantage of the opportunity and purchasing the scissors in question.
Depending on how innovative a product is, different strategies are carried out to show it to potential buyers, taking into account variables such as: which audience it is aimed at; which of its features may be familiar and which should be carefully explained; What type of demonstration can be most effective, whether in person, through the media, allowing the public to try it directly or giving a presentation by specifically trained personnel.
In certain cases, large companies decide to opt for a demonstration in which the public tries their products for themselves, with the guidance of a person trained for the occasion. This usually happens with very well-finished products, with real potential, that do not need makeup to captivate consumers, and that is why it is not so common. In general, the aim is to impress in the minds of potential buyers what they will feel when using it, why they need to buy it, although the reality is considerably different from the advertising campaign .