There are many definitions of “propaganda” Take a moment and write your own Is your definition good, bad, or neutral? Why? Are there any differences between your definition of propaganda, and advertising? Did you know both are forms of rhetoric?
Propaganda is a form of communication that is aimed at influencing the attitude of a community toward some cause or position. (Wikipedia) The spreading of ideas or information to further or damage a cause. (Merriam- Webster)
Propaganda entails the systematic dissemination of any given doctrine or dogma, by any party…. In other words, it does not, at its core, require deliberate deception. Propaganda, then, is not inherently “good” or “bad.”
News Politicians School Friends and Family Organizations Any others?
Overt & Covert Subjective & Objective Influence & Manipulate Conjecture & Certainty Be sure to use this terminology in your analyses of media.
Creating a image of a person as a savior or a great leader – building them up to be the answer to everyone’s problems
An illusion that you had better do something (or not do something) or you will regret it – you will suffer the consequences!
Lie so enormously that no one would believe someone would lie about such a thing.
Attaching a negative adjective to someone or something such as “liar” or “tyrant.” Also can target a group of people, based on prejudice and stereotype.
The banning of information. Often done by prohibiting the source (books, websites, movies, video games)
Reducing a point of view to simple vague concepts
1. Can you think of other propaganda devices? 2. Research online. Can you find some more? 3. Do any of them look familiar?
Repetition- The more often you hear the message, the more likely it is to influence you Simplicity- The message must be short and simple due to short attention spans. The simple lie always conquers complex truth. Imagery- Appealing, descriptive imagery is most effective Sentiment- The message should appeal to strong emotions rather than contain details
The above were examples of overt propaganda. It was clear to the audience that one perspective was being presented, and it’s goal was to convince you. However, there are more covert examples
Often at speeches and rallies, paid supporters are placed in the crowd to cheer at the appropriate times, to influence the rest of the audience. Some reporters have been known to only ask questions given to them by interviewees. Pepsi, Wal-Mart, Sea World and Exxon have all been caught editing their own wikipedia pages
The “Affordable Healthcare Act” (AKA- Obamacare) had problems with the initial rollout. On Friday, April 11, 2014 the Secretary of Health and Human services resigned. Here is how FOX News (Right wing) and MSNBC(Left wing) handled the same story. FOX FOX MSNBC MSNBC
Choose a news source from your home country. This can be video or print. Choose a story about something happening in your country which fits your definition of propaganda. Answer the following in one or two paragraphs: 1.Is it overt or covert? 2.What techniques are being employed? 3. Evaluate its effectiveness using the “Basics of Propaganda” information.