Political propaganda, this is how the threads move

Political propaganda has always been a powerful tool to influence people's thoughts and behaviors. Although the term may seem relatively unfashionable these days, its use remains concrete, hidden under the concepts of persuasion and political advertising. But what are some of the most widespread techniques of political propaganda, and how do they affect each of us? In many cases, without even realizing it.

What is political propaganda?

Political propaganda is a type of communication used to influence people's thoughts and decisions, to achieve certain political goals. To understand it deeply as a concept, we must keep in mind three main criteria:

Content: The message must be political, either directly or indirectly. Even messages that appear neutral on the surface often have a political essence when analyzed more deeply.

Message Control: The user of political propaganda has full control over the creation and distribution of the message.

Purpose: The objective is to promote the interests and ideas of the user of propaganda, often by providing solutions or answers to the audience, based on predetermined goals.

The three most used techniques of political propaganda

Political propaganda techniques are varied and used in sophisticated ways, with the aim of influencing public opinion. Here are the three most common:

Emotionally charged words or terms are used to have a strong impact on the audience. Labeling can be positive or negative, and in most cases, it is not based on objective arguments.

Negative labeling: An opposing idea or group is portrayed in negative tones, often without concrete evidence. For example, the term "group of evil" for an opposing alliance.

Asymmetric definitions: Words or phrases are used to send messages that are not very clear, and which are often interpreted according to the propagandist's intent. For example: Saying that "war aims at peace" gives a contradictory meaning to the situation.

Emotional generalizations: Big, emotionally charged phrases are used to create excitement, but they are often vague and offer nothing concrete. For example: "Candidate X is the change we need!"

Association uses the idea of ​​a relationship between different concepts to influence people's perceptions. This method aims to transfer positive or negative qualities from one person to another.

Juxtaposition: Two ideas or figures are placed next to each other, even without a clear logical connection, but to the target of the propaganda, the impression is created that they are connected. For example: "Politician Y is friends with the corrupt party X."

Positively charged words: Using words such as "freedom", "security" or "truth" helps to create positive feelings towards a message or a figure.

Using ordinary people: Including different figures from everyday life, or ordinary situations helps to create an emotional connection between the audience and the message. For example: A politician who appears in a neighborhood cafe, drinking coffee with the citizens, to create the idea of ​​simplicity and closeness to them.

3. Source Authority Technique

This technique relies on the strength of authority to lend credibility to a message.

Confidential sources: Referring to anonymous or unidentified sources as "reliable" is a method of increasing credibility. For example: "Government sources confirm the involvement of politician X in a scandal."

Argument from authority: Using prominent figures to support an idea. For example: "The great philosopher Y espoused the same principles we espouse today."

Personal attacks: Instead of discussing the message, the focus shifts to the person delivering it, discrediting them. For example: Calling an opponent "corrupt" or "untrustworthy" to undermine his message.

Although we may think we are immune to these tactics, the reality is that political propaganda has a strong influence on most of us. The key to resisting it is education and knowledge of these techniques.

Analyze content: Look for concrete facts and evidence that support the message.

Question the source: Who created the message and what is its purpose?

Avoid immediate emotional reactions: Think about why a message makes you feel happy, angry or scared.

It is the knowledge of these techniques that helps not to fall prey to manipulation and make more informed decisions. After all, the power to change begins with the power to understand and challenge the messages we receive every day. / bota.al (A2 Televizion)