Propaganda Techniques Notes March 2017 LA 2

Propaganda Definition Definition of propaganda 1:  the spreading of ideas, information, or rumor for the purpose of helping or injuring an institution, a cause, or a person 2:  ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further one's cause or to damage an opposing cause; also :  a public action having such an effect

Examples of Propaganda being used in a sentence She didn't buy into the propaganda of her day that women had to be soft and submissive. —Maria Shriver, Time, 26 Oct. 2009 The report was nothing but lies and propaganda.

Name Calling links a person or idea to a negative symbol “Trotsky is a demon.”

Glittering Generalities - make the audience approve and accept without examining the evidence “I stand for freedom,” said the candidate.

Euphemism the substitution of a mild, indirect, or vague expression for one thought to be offensive, harsh, or blunt. the expression “To pass away” is a euphemism for “to die.” “Alternate facts” vs. “lies” “Between jobs” vs “unemployed”

Transfer using things people accept to get the public to accept something else This technique involves making an illogical association between one thing and something else that is generally viewed as positive or negative. For example: " The American pioneers worked hard because they cared about the future. If you care about the future of your family, then see your agent at Pioneer Insurance."

Testimonial - a statement that gives evidence to the truth, excellence of something misuse in citing individuals who are not qualified to make judgments about a particular issue This technique involves having an unqualified person endorse a product, action, or opinion. For example: "Hi, I’m Bart Bearson. As a pro-football quarterback, I have to be concerned about my health. That’s why I take Pro-Ball Vitamin Supplements."

Plain Folks speakers attempt to convince their audience that they, and their ideas, are“of the people” Example: Barack Obama campaigned, he ate at McDonald’s.

Bandwagon false sense of a rush to join something that doesn’t truly exist “everyone else is doing it, and so should you”  For example: "All your neighbors are rushing down to Mistri Motors to take advantage of this year-end sale. You come, too!"

Fear warn audience that disaster will result if they don’t follow a particular course of action Politicians will sometimes play on fears that are already in existence. EX: Fear for National Security, job loss/unemployment, terrorism