Thursday, May 19, 2022

How does propaganda work?

What are steps of propaganda?
  1. Simplify. Human brains struggle with complexity when multiple variables are involved (called a multi-variant problem). Simplify to we-good vs others-bad.
  2. Disfigure. Mock, ridicule, parody, label. 
  3. Transfusion. If people already believe in something, use that belief for your message.
  4. Unanimity. This view is the only correct one for all sane & right-thinking people. Use star performers, media, entertainment, academia to push the view. Use social pressure such as public shaming, surprise, disgust, consternation for doubters. Make expressing an alternate view require immense courage that most will retreat.
  5. Orchestration. Repeat the message in slightly different form, tone & style in media, academia & entertainment.
Who is involved?
  • Instigators & Strategists. Usually, behind the scenes, highly intelligent & powerful planners who set the narrative, for an agenda, usually for power, money, fame, conversion.
  • Agitators. People who are paid to spread the propaganda in media, academia or entertainment. Sometimes, people who are already mentally in tune.
  • Agents of influence. Well-meaning simple-minded people who consume & internalize what they read in media, academia & entertainment in a medium they trust. They then become unwittingly the foot soldiers of the movement.
The smartest people in propaganda can be found in politics & organized religion.

Recognize any of this?

- paraphrasing Norman Davies from his book "Europe: A History"

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