1. Propaganda: It’s All Around Us!

2. Propaganda
Definition: the spreading of ideas, information, or rumor for the purpose of helping or injuring an institution, a cause, or a person

3. Bandwagon
Definition: Telling the viewer to do or buy something because everyone else is doing so.
Examples:
“Everyone in town is voting for candidate X”
“Join Now! Don’t be left behind!”

4. Science & Numbers
Definition: Attempting to confuse or convince the audience through numbers, statistics or theories that the audience can’t follow or can’t confirm (check on their own).
Examples:
“Four out of five dentist surveyed chose X product”
This doesn’t even say whether or not there were more than five dentists surveyed.

5. Fear Definition: An appeal to the audience’s fear or insecurity.
Examples:
“If we don’t go to war, terrorists will attack our cities any day…”
“Protect your family from burglary and violence, use Smith Locks”

6. Mudslinging
Definition: Throw “mud” (insults & suggestions of unethical or inappropriate behavior) at your opponent to make him/her look bad so you look good by comparison.
Examples:
“Candidate X is a liar, and a cheater! He’s unfaithful & doesn’t have a clue!”

7. Glittering Generalities
Definition: Something that sounds great, but is very vague and general. It may not even make sense.
Examples:
i.e. “I see an America where everybody has a job, we all live in a stable, happy family, and we can all enjoy a beautiful sunset breathing unpolluted air!”
Sounds wonderful but is it realistic?

8. Flagwaving
Definition: An appeal to patriotism. Often seen during campaigns with patriotic music in the background & red, white, and blue balloons.
Examples:
“I love my country!
I am willing to fight!
“Serve your country!”

9. Slogans & Jingles
Definition: Short, catchy, easily remembered & repeated phrases.
The phrases can be almost meaningless, as long as they get people to remember the product
Examples:
“Just do it”
“Yes we can!”

10. Nostalgia Definition: Appeal to nice images and stories of the past.
This technique is effective because we believe that in the past things worked better, times were simpler and everybody worked harder.
Examples:
When I was growing we could all still believe in the American dream.
Back in the good ole’ days…

11. Shining Image
Definition: Drawing connections to something beautiful or pleasant.
Examples:
Sunsets & beaches,
beautiful people
Flags & country pride
Parties & romantic, etc.

12. Endorsement
Definition: Having a famous person say that he or she supports a product or idea.
If a famous person uses a product it, must be good.
Examples:
If Pepsi can make Shaquille O’ Neal great, maybe it can help me!