Elements of Propaganda

Recall

Symbolism

Cartoonists use simple objects, or symbols, to stand for larger concepts or ideas

Exaggeration

Sometimes cartoonists overdo, or exaggerate, the physical characteristics of people or things in order to make a point

Analogy

An analogy is a comparison between two unlike things that share some characteristics. By comparing a complex issue or situation with a more familiar one, cartoonists can help their readers see it in a different

Analyze the following image

7 Elements of Propaganda

Standard 10.7.3 Analyze the rise of totalitarian regimes

Name Calling

Technique to create fear and arouse prejudice by using negative words (bad names) to create an unfavorable opinion or hatred against a group, beliefs, ideas or institutions

used as a substitute for arguing the merits of an idea, belief, or proposal.

Often employed using sarcasm and ridicule in political cartoons and writing.

KEY THINKING QUESTIONS:

What does the name mean?

Is there a real connection between the idea and the name being used?

What are the merits of the idea if I leave the name out of consideration?

Glittering Generalities

Use of unclear, sweeping statements (often slogans or simple catchphrases) using language associated with values and beliefs deeply held by the audience without providing supporting information or reason.

May appeal to such notions as honor, glory, love of country, desire for peace, freedom, and family values.

cannot be proven true or false because it really says little or nothing at all.

KEY QUESTIONS:

What do the slogans or phrases really mean?

What are the merits of the idea itself if it is separated from the slogans or phrases?

Transfer

A technique used to carry over the authority and approval of something we respect and revere to something the propagandist would have us accept.

Use symbols (e.g., waving the flag) to stir our emotions and win our approval.

KEY QUESTIONS:

What is the speaker trying to pitch?

Is there merit in the proposal by itself?

Testimonial

Associate a respected person with a cause by giving it their stamp of approval, hoping that the intended audience will follow their example.

KEY QUESTIONS:

Why should we regard this person as an expert or trust their testimony?

Is there merit to the idea or product without the testimony?.

Plain Folks

Convince the audience that the spokesperson is from humble origins, someone they can trust and who has their interests at heart.

Use ordinary language and mannerisms to reach the audience and identify with their point of view.

KEY QUESTIONS:

Is the person trustworthy when they are removed from the situation being discussed?

Is the person trying to cover up anything?

What are the facts of the situation?

Bandwagon

Persuade the audience to follow the crowd.

Create the impression of widespread support. It reinforces the human desire to be on the winning side. It also plays on feelings of loneliness and isolation.

KEY QUESTIONS:

What is the propagandist's program?

What is the evidence for and against the program?

Even though others are supporting it, why should I?

Card Stacking

Makes the best case possible for one side and the worst for the opposing viewpoint by carefully using only those facts that support the one side of the argument, while attempting to lead the audience into accepting the facts as a conclusion.

In other words, the propagandist stacks the cards against the truth.

The most difficult one to detect because it does not provide all of the information necessary for the audience to make an informed decision. The audience must decide what is missing.

KEY QUESTIONS:

Are facts being distorted or omitted?

What other arguments exist to support these assertions?

Hitler: A CareerFilm Notes

TechniqueHitlers ActionsName CallingBandwagonGlittering GeneralitiesTransferTestimonialPlain FolksCard Stacking

Copy this graphic organizer into your notebooks make it full page.

Write down specific phrases used by Hitler, or descriptions give by the narrator.

Triumph of the WillFILM NOTES

Guiding Question: WHAT ARGUMENTS IS THE DIRECTOR OF THE FILM MAKING?

Make a diagram similar to the one below in the next page of your notebook.

You should attempt to capture as much detail as possible because you will write a short essay based on the information you collect!

Basic Messages

Visual Techniques

Emotions