Propaganda
What is it? Propaganda is a persuasive technique used to spread information to help or hurt a cause. It often involves the use of powerful images.
Recognizing propaganda - Propaganda usually misdirects or distracts the publics attention away from the issues. Read between the lines to see what isn’t being reported or reported sparingly. – Decide if the people presenting the information are doing it ‘as is’ or are doing it to lead you to the ‘best way’ to look at the situation.
Propaganda type #1 Testimonial Testimonial is the use of well-known, respected people to endorse a product or service. The reputation of the respected person is used to persuade others. Example: Athletes appearing on Wheaties boxes. Actors speaking at political rallies.
Propaganda type #2 Glittering generalities Glittering generalities is the act of using words or ideas that create a positive emotional response from an audience. Connotation is always favorable. Ex: Using words such as…democracy, patriotism, family, honor, peace and happiness
Propaganda type #3: Bandwagon Bandwagon uses the “join the crowd” mentality It is the idea that since everyone else is doing it, so should you. EX: WWII posters encouraging people to buy war bonds because other American are buying them.
Propaganda type #4: appeal to fear Appeal to Fear builds support by creating fear in population. Disaster will result if you do not follow a specific course of action. EX: American WWII posters trying to scare people into believing Japan and Germany want to take over the U.S.
Propaganda Type #5: Transfer Transfer is a technique by which a person links the authority or prestige of a common symbol to something he/she would have us accept. Well respected symbols are frequently used. EX: Waving an American flag in protest.
Propaganda type #6: common man Common man is an attempt to convince the audience that a prominent person and his/her ideas are “of the people”. EX: politician is shown eating at McDonalds. A billionaire politician is seen as a normal citizen.