How to Identify Propaganda Techniques

Be aware of the intent behind images.

Propaganda can be a powerful tool of persuasion, as it was a key element in the rise of the Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party prior to World War II. Seven types of propaganda influence people by appealing to their emotions rather than their reason, according to George Mason University (GMU). Edward Filene and his colleagues at the Institute for Propaganda Analysis, founded in 1937, identified the most common tricks used by propagandists. Learning to identify what's involved in the use of these techniques will make allow you to recognize when they are being used.

Instructions

1. Look for the use of "glittering" generalities in the form of catchphrases, sweeping and vague statements, GMU recommends. Slogans using positive and uplifting concepts such as love, honor, family, peace and freedom are often the tools used by propagandists because they appeal to the masses .

2. Watch for the use of symbols that are attached to authority or things most people respect. The Nazi swastika is an example of a symbol used to elicit an emotional response from the public such as, intimidation or fear. A respectful symbol, such as the American flag is used during the Pledge of Allegiance to unify people's patriotism, reinforce their belief in God and loyalty to the country. This is the transference technique used to appeal to people's emotions and get them on the propagandists' side.

3. Be alert to name-calling. Propagandists will often make negative statements against groups or institutions they are attempting to denounce rather than positively tout the merits of their own proposals and concepts.

4. Be leery of testimonials by those who might garner respect from the public. Testimonials may be presented by a person who really doesn't have the authority to gauge the value of the product or concept being presented, but is respected in the community. The "expert" may also have a vested interest in backing the propagandists' agenda.

5. Be on the lookout for "plain folks." Propagandists will often use spokesmen who claim to be from humble beginnings to gain the respect and trust of the crowd.

6. Watch for suggestions that if you're not on board with the concept or product being hyped, you will be left out. Propagandists try to get followers on the "bandwagon" to avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness.

7. Be alert to strong, one-sided facts that support the propagandists' case. "Card-stacking" is the most difficult propaganda technique to identify, GMU points out. The propagandists will stack the cards in their favor, only using facts and arguments that support their agenda, ignoring evidence that contradicts or invalidates their point of view.

Tips & Warnings

• Propaganda is practiced by nations, political groups and corporations in a variety of means. The United States military has a department of psychological operations that specializes in using propaganda and other psychological tools to affect the enemy. Other countries have similarly functioning departments.

References

• George Mason University: Propaganda
• University of Tennessee; The VolWeb Project; Please Say It's So; Propaganda techniques
• Read Write Think; Lesson Plan; Propaganda Techniques in Literature and Online Political Ads
• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: Nazi Propaganda