Propaganda Techniques

Propaganda A technique of persuasion aimed at influencing public opinion to create a particular popular belief.

Propaganda Techniques Plain Folk Bandwagon Name Calling Card Stacking Glittering Generalities Transfer Testimonial

Plain Folk Pretend to be one of the common people. Helps listener relate to speaker. “I’m one of the worker’s friends” olks.htm

Bandwagon Follow the crowd, be with the majority. Appeals to people who want to be on the winning team. Ex: “I’m voting for the Situation, why aren’t you?”

Name Calling Do not discuss facts, just give the opposition a bad name. Attaches negative image to opposing side. “Mickey Mouse is un- American”

Glittering Generalities Broad and vague statements. Never really says anything. “In the interest of peace and prosperity” ng_generalities.htm

Transfer Use symbols to accomplish purposes for which they intended. Associates person w/ positive image. Using an American flag as a backdrop

Testimonial Endorsed by a celebrity. Makes people think that a positive view of the person is a “correct” one The Situation is endorsing Snooki for president.

Card Stackingard Stacking Presenting only one side of an issue through the distortion of facts. Makes evidence against person seem overwhelming “Pauly D voted 35 times to raise your taxes!”

Snob Appeal This device reverses the appeal of PLAIN FOLKS. Instead, this one tries to flatter the consumer by making her think she is special.