Techniques To Be Aware Of

What is propaganda? Communication that attempts to influence a community to agree or disagree with some cause or position

Some Famous American Propaganda Posters

Other forms of propaganda… Radio Newspaper articles Ads Movies Movie “previews”

Institute for Propaganda Analysis In 1937, a group of American social scientists, historians, journalists, and educators got together to form an organization to help the public make informed decisions. They wanted to help Americans think for themselves, not tell them how to think They developed a series of books and flyers

The I.P.A.’s “7 common Propaganda Devices” These 7 techniques are said to be especially effective because they appeal to our emotions… not our reason

1. Name Calling Creates fear/anger by portraying the opposition as very unfavorable Creates hatred for a group, idea, person

2. Glittering Generalities Phrases that are vague and appeal to very good, deeply-held feelings Pride, honor, patriotism, desire for peace, family values Can’t be proved true or false…just an overly general statement

3. Transfer technique used to carry over the authority and approval of something we respect and revere to something the propagandist want us to believe or accept. Symbols like waving the flag to stir our emotions and win our approval

4. Testimonial Using a well-known, respected figure to represent an idea The hope is that we will follow the example that we respect

5. Plain Folks Technique used to convince audience that spokesperson is just an “everyday Joe”. Ordinary language/mannerisms are used. People can identify with this The hope is that people will trust their message

6. Bandwagon “Everybody’s Doing It!” Tries to convince people to follow the masses and jump on the bandwagon of the message Appeals to the emotions of wanting to be on the winning side, be part of a group, avoid loneliness in your views

7. Card Stacking Displaying only the facts that make your side look good and the other side look bad (and ignoring anything else)

Summary of Techniques 1. Name Calling 2. Glittering Generalities 3. Transfer 4. Testimonial 5. Plain Folks 6. Bandwagon 7. Card Stacking All use emotional appeals Exaggeration is also a technique

Worksheet Example 1

Worksheet Example 2