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I take issue with the notion that an organization can't serve as a propaganda machine when the people who work there have good intentions. Why? Because practica
by gizmo 10y ago
I take issue with the notion that an organization can't serve as a propaganda machine when the people who work there have good intentions. Why? Because practically everybody has good intentions. Even genocidal maniacs believe their actions are merely an "unfortunate necessity" that can be justified by looking at the long run. If the worst of humanity isn't contradicted by "good intentions" then nothing is. It's human nature to rationalize our beliefs, especially when we stand to gain from doing so. Besides, no shadowy conspiracy is needed to explain that which can be explained easily by incentives and social order.
In 'Manufacturing Consent'[1] Chomsky outlines 5 ways in which the media are systematically biased, and end up acting as propaganda machines despite being staffed with honest and well-meaning journalists. It's a very well known model (although certainly controversial).
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propaganda_model https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Propaganda_model
- alexandercrohde 10y ago"Besides, no shadowy conspiracy is needed to explain that which can be explained easily by incentives and social order." This is exactly my point. Take care with the word propaganda, even if you mean to imply the latter most will assume you're intending to communicate the former and write you off entirely.
- gizmo 10y agoI think that's good advice.
- anonbanker 10y agopropaganda is exactly the word that should be used, but people are afraid of losing mindshare by telling the truth. It's as if everyone subconsciously understands that you have to soften your language in order to not be labeled an extremist. does anyone really believe the media is independant in 2016?
- alexandercrohde 10y agoNot at all. Let's examine this point by point (I'm taking great care here because personally I want to help Snowden supporters make a compelling case) - You should use the most effective word, not the most satisfying word. - You won't push anybody away by telling the truth, you push people away by being too emotional and appearing unreliable (e.g. exhibiting all-or-nothing thinking, and using emotionally-charged language that impedes logic) - Lots of people trust the media (~40%) [1]. [1] http://www.gallup.com/poll/185927/americans-trust-media-remains-historical-low.aspx http://www.gallup.com/poll/185927/americans-trust-media-rema...