Propaganda

Techniques > Propaganda

Propaganda is an evocative word that brings to mind images of dictatorships and wartime misinformation. Although not as widespread as conspiracy theorists might have us believe, it is still in use daily in virtually every country.

Propaganda articles

• What is propaganda?: Basic definition of propaganda.
• A brief history: From Pope Gregory XV onwards.
• Military, media and education: The dictator's three friends.
• Modern propaganda: Totalitarian omnipresence of persuasive messages.

Propaganda techniques

• Bandwagon: Pump up the value of 'joining the party'.
• Card-stacking: Build a highly-biased case for your position.
• Glittering generalities: Use power words to evoke emotions.
• Name-calling: Denigrating opponents.
• Plain folks: Making the leader seem ordinary increases trust and credibility.
• Stereotyping: Classify the other side negatively.
• Testimonial: The testimony of an independent person is seen as more trustworthy.
• Transfer: Associate the leader with trusted others.

See also

Conversion techniques

Propaganda links