Elements of Propaganda Analysing war posters

What is propaganda? Consider: Which country does this come from? What symbols are used? What emotive words are used?

Name-Calling Used to create fear and arouse prejudice by using negative words. Creates negative opinions and hatred of groups, ideas, beliefs, or any institutions the propaganda would have us denounce. Used as a substitute for examining the merits of an idea. Sarcasm, ridicule… Ask yourself: Is there an actual connection between the name and the idea…?

Glittering Generalities Employs vague & sweeping statements (often slogans or simple catchphrases) using language associated with values and beliefs deeply held by the audience, minus supporting information & reason. It appeals to: honour. glory, love of country, desire for peace, freedom, family values. This really says nothing at all, and thus, cannot be refuted. Ask: what do these slogans/phrases really mean…?

Transfer This technique’s used to carry over the authority and approval of something we respect and revere to something the propagandist would have us accept. Uses symbols (eg. waving flags) to stir emotions. Ask: Is there any merit in the symbols and the proposal…? One needs to question the proposal itself, divorced from the images & symbols.

Testimonial Propagandists use the testimonial technique to associate a respected person or someone with experience. Ask: Who is quoted? How are they represented? Is there merit associated with the idea without the testimony?

Plain folks ‘Plain folks’ is used to convince the audience that the spokesperson is from humble origins, someone they can trust and who has their best interests at heart. Ordinary language & common mannerisms are often used. Ask: Is the person credible & trustworthy…? Are they trying to cover up anything?

Bandwagon This technique is used to persuade audiences that they should follow the crowd. It creates the impression of widespread support & reinforces the idea that humans want to be on the winning team. It can play on feelings of loneliness & isolation to convince people not on the bandwagon they will be left behind. Ask: What is the program? “IS swimming alone at sea, the kind of freedom that you actually want?”

Card-stacking Making the best case possible for the propagandists side and the worst for the opposing viewpoint. Carefully uses only the facts that support the viewpoint of the propagandist. Cards are stacked against the whole story, or even the truth. It is the most difficult to detect, as it’s difficult to know if all the information is present in order to make an informed decision. Ask: What’s left out…?