PRP - Propaganda Module Overview
Propaganda
Introduction
The study of propaganda is really the study of the precision and purpose of language. The students will dwell on the techniques that are used to manipulate and audience. Through this investigation, students will acquire a sensitivity to the importance of fine details. Specifically, students will edit and amend a presentation to better serve the purpose of studying propaganda. They will focus on the five techniques of influencing an audience. They will create an effective poster that depicts the thesis of their major research paper that culminates in Module 12.
Essential Questions
- Is it possible to write objectively?
- Why are complicated issues so often polarized?
- How is propaganda effective in distorting reality?
Global Warming
According to NOAA scientists, 2010 tied with 2005 as the warmest year of the global surface temperature record, beginning in 1880. This was the 34th consecutive year with global temperatures above the 20th-century average. For the contiguous United States alone, the 2010 average annual temperature was above normal, resulting in the 23rd warmest year on record. Though all facts should be subject to scrutiny and skepticism, there is a consensus that this trend exists.
Yet the term "global warming" sparks a wide array of reactions. Some assume that the results of this trend will lead to apocalyptic earth changes. Others argue that the data is flawed and "global warming" is a nefarious ploy. Somewhere the truth must exist, yet language always allows for wiggle room and interpretation. Even science, which adheres to the strictest sense of objectivity, relies on words to communicate. Lawyers practice the craft of manipulating language to fit their advantage. As we witnessed, advertisers have made an art of using language to evoke desire in consumers. Propagandists take a step beyond these practices and utilize language and images to persuade the audience with information that is questionable or simply not true. Our task is to inspect the mechanisms that make meaning from what is otherwise false.
Key Terms
- Propaganda: An extreme form of persuasion intended to prejudice and incite the reader or listener to action either for or against a particular cause or position, usually by means of a one-sided argument or an appeal to the emotions.
- Objectivity: The fact or quality of being accurate, unbiased, and independent of individual perceptions.
- Empirical knowledge: Information based on or characterized by observation and experiment instead of theory.
- Disingenuous: Giving a false impression of sincerity or simplicity; withholding or not taking account of known information.
- Subliminal: Existing or operating below the threshold of consciousness.
Five techniques:
- Bandwagon: Persuading people to do something by letting them know others are doing it.
- Loaded words: Using words that will make people feel strongly about someone or something
- Testimonial: Using the words and images of a "famous person" or expert to persuade.
- Transfer: Using images to bring up positive feelings in order to persuade.
- Repetition: Using repeated messages or pictures to persuade.
RESOURCES IN THIS MODULE ARE OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES (OER) OR CREATED BY GAVS UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. SOME IMAGES USED UNDER SUBSCRIPTION.