Propaganda Techniques

Propaganda Definition: information, especially of a biased or misleading nature, used to promote or publicize a particular political cause or point of view. Example: "he was charged with distributing enemy propaganda"

1. Glittering Generalities Definition: Using attractive, but vague words that make speeches and other communications sound good, but in practice say nothing in particular. Example: “Pure, fresh, mountain spring water. Bottled especially for you in Utah from only our purest mountain springs.”

1. Glittering Generalities (continued) When you read an ad like that, it’s good to ask some questions: What makes mountain spring water better than Midwestern spring water? What makes this water fresher than other water? What makes it pure? How did they bottle it “especially for you?” Similar to Loaded Language.

2. Guilt by association Definition: Rejecting a claim simply because people you dislike accept the claim Example: Bob: I'm thinking of voting for Bush. Who is Larry thinking of voting for? I hate Larry. Steve: I think Larry is voting for Bush as well. Bob: Oh. Never mind, I think I'll vote for Kerry.

3. Innuendo/rumor Definition: Suggests negative things without explaining or supporting them. Example: Billy: My opponent represents "New York values." Johnny: What is that supposed to mean? Billy: You know.

4. Snobbery/Snob Appeal Definition: Implies that listener will be better than others by acting certain way. Example: "Buy new skunk brand perfume, you will stand out in the crowd."

5. Plain folks Definition: Relating a product/issue to everyday people. Example: America's recent presidents have all been millionaires, but they have gone to great lengths to present themselves as ordinary citizens. Bill Clinton ate at McDonald's and confessed a fondness for trashy spy novels. George Bush Sr. hated broccoli, and loved to fish. Ronald Reagan was often photographed chopping wood, and Jimmy Carter presented himself as a humble peanut farmer from Georgia.

6. Testimonial Definition: Tells you to base a decision on what someone else think Example: “I lost 50 pounds in 3 weeks with this new vitamin supplement!” Similar to Appeal to Authority, but based on an experience somebody had. Can still use celebrities, doctors, and other reputable figures.

6. Testimonial- Example