I’ve been reading Daily Kos for several years now but only recently started commenting and writing stories here. One of the things I noticed — or haven’t noticed anyone addressing — is the role that propaganda is playing in the 2016 presidential election campaign, especially Donald Trump’s campaign. Why is nobody on Kos talking about it? Mr. Trump is a master at propaganda, and it is largely propelling his current popularity. So, here is a brief description of the seven (7) types of propaganda and some examples of Mr. Trump’s use of them.
1) Glittering Generalities: Using emotionally appealing words with no basis to evoke a positive response. Trump: “We’re going to build a wall, and Mexico’s going to pay for it.”
2) Bandwagon — aka Euphoria: Join us and help us march to victory and win. Everyone else is doing it. Parades and rallies and marching bands to generate well being and support. Trump: “If I’m elected, everybody will have a job, I guarantee it.”
3) Testimonial: Taking quotes out of context to support or reject an idea or policy, or using well known people to endorse an idea, policy or product. Trump: See the politicians, businessmen and celebrities endorsing him.
4) Name Calling — aka Labelling: Using words to incite fear and prejudices and create a negative opinion; or diminish or discredit a person, class or idea. Trump: “I have many friends who are; Black, Women, Hispanic, Muslim, Disabled.” “Get him/her out of here.” “________ is a pathological liar.”
5) Plain Folks: Making appeals to, or using regular people to convey his message. “I support Trump because _____________!” NOTE: Bernie Sanders uses this technique to his advantage also.
6)Card Stacking: Manipulating information to show its best features. Trump: “I know how to make a deal.”
7) Transfer: Appeals to a persons imagination of something we like or trust. Trump: “Make America Great Again”
Repetition: Like advertising, repeat slogans and quotes frequently and often to get the consumer (voter) to purchase “Product Trump.” Or “Product ‘Cruz,’ ‘Rubio,’ ‘Kasich,’ ‘Clinton,’ ‘Sanders.’ ”
Add your comment or quote about any of the presidential candidates and identify the type of propaganda you think it is. Or, respond to the poll below. The results could be interesting.