Propaganda

Mr. Chupak

9th Grade Honors Language Arts

Period 2

October 11, 2010

What is propaganda?

Propaganda

Uses persuasive techniques Encourages people to act based on their emotions

alone, instead of solid reasoning

What is propaganda? (continued)

Advertisements Perhaps the most concentrated form of propaganda

The same techniques are used in public debate.

It is a rare piece of writing that does not employ some form of propaganda to persuade the reader.

Propaganda Techniques

The bandwagon effect

Suggests that most people feel one way about an issue Urges others to go along with the majority

Example: Loco Cola: Millions of soda drinkers can’t be wrong.

Propaganda Techniques

Transfer

Presents a positive image or idea Attaches those positive feelings to another idea

Example: All across the rich, green fields, the towering purple mountains, and the glittering cities, Americans are discovering the pleasure of Smel-Free deodorant.

Propaganda Techniques

Testimonial

Another type of transfer Tells you to base your decision on what someone else

things Usually shows someone who is famous or important.

Example: NBA All-Star Reggie Schwartzendruber says, “I only drive cars made by Lemon Motors.”

Propaganda Techniques

Bait and Switch

Transfers the reader’s attention from an exciting idea to a less interesting subject.

Example: Imagine having more money than you could ever spend! Picture yourself in the house of your dreams, driving the sportiest car, and being able to take your own jet to Paris whenever you want. The first step to achieving this goal is to buy Bill Fortune’s Guide to Personal Accounting and Tax Law.

Propaganda Techniques

Glittering Generalities

Uses words that are patriotic, attractive, or catchy but don’t really say anything

Example: We are at the crossroads of human destiny! We must choose a true leader for our city.

Propaganda Techniques

Emotional words,

Like glittering generalities, they don’t use facts. Attempt to stir the reader’s feelings

Example: If you love your children, vote for the candidate who cares. Vote for Jan VanDann.

Propaganda Techniques

Repetition

Uses a certain word or phrase over and over until it is associated with the subject

Example: The senator’s cheapskate tie, cheapskate jacket, and cheapskate shoes should tell you what kind of cheapskate politics he’s practicing.

Propaganda Techniques

Name-calling

Makes accusations -But-

Doesn’t give any facts to support the claims

Example: Vote for Jan Van Dann if you don’t mind putting a liar into office.

Propaganda Techniques

Ad hominen

Meaning “to the person” Another form of attacking a person Makes a personal criticism without addressing the person’s

argument

Example: Senator Bigshot may support increased school funding, but he’s a high-school dropout.

Propaganda Techniques

Stereotyping Uses commonly held but oversimplified or unfair

images of a group Makes a point that isn’t true

Example: Jan VanDann may have the young voters of Ohio behind her, but all they care about are video games and rock music.

Propaganda Techniques

Snobbery

Tries to make people think they can be better than others by acting or thinking in a certain way

Example: Rise above the rest. Wear Superia cologne.

Propaganda Techniques

Ordinary folks

Tries to associate the message with simple values and down-to-earth people

May claim that opposing view are linked to people who think they are better than others

Example: I didn’t go to a big, fancy university like my opponent did. I don’t dress like a movie star. I’m just a simple farmer at heart. I work for the people—I don’t tell them what to believe!

Propaganda Techniques

Appeal to science

Suggests that science supports a particular claim The information is not backed up with facts.

Example: Clinical studies show that Tappwatta Springs bottled water can prevent dehydration. (Not stated: All water can prevent dehydration.)

Propaganda Techniques

Scare tactics

Describe possible negative effects with strong and supported images

Make people act out of fear instead of reason

Example: If you don’t use Germ-Away household spray every day, you may allow your children to fall victim to deadly disease.

Propaganda Techniques

Oversimplification

Makes claims that are not properly defined

Example: The economy today is stronger than it’s ever been.

Quiz Time!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdhWIs76K80&NR=1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yHXmf0nSLY&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IocCC1-jeTY&feature=related