How to spot propaganda

A number of techniques based on psychosocial research have been and continue to be used to generate what we call propaganda, but information dissemination strategies become propaganda strategies only when they are associated with messages intended to manipulate public opinion. Here are a few things to keep an eye out for.

Constant repetition of a simple, vague, power-worded idea.

This technique appeals to the poorly-informed public, with little desire to discern through deep study of the issue. If you understand the message, identify yourself with the grand terms used (like freedom, peace, glory, honor, patriotism), and you see it and hear it everywhere, it surely must be right… Right?

Of course you want what’s best for you & your peers (whatever that means), and your “side” explained it plainly, what’s there to question? Yes, I am also pointing to the vaccine & war experts we’ve seen in the recent past.

The “everyone’s already doing this” or the Bandwagon effect

Appealing to the group psychology principles, this technique tries to convince the target audience to take the measures that “everyone else is taking”, counting on people’s natural desire to be on the winning side. Excessive simplification is used to provide simple answers to complex social, political, economic, or military problems. Even grandpa agrees, and he’s seen his fair share of difficulties in his life. And all his friends. And some of your coworkers and Polly’s aunt.