Essay on The Functions of Stereotypes in Propaganda

The Functions of Stereotypes in Propaganda A leader with no followers is a guy taking a walk. Good leaders whether it be opinion or political, rarely if ever walk by themselves. The information theydisseminate more often than not leaves them with a hoard of followers that conform to their ideas or cause. The circulated information is known as propaganda. The Webster dictionary defines propaganda as, ideas, facts, or allegations spread deliberately to further ones cause or to damage an opposing cause. Propaganda has been around for a long time; the earliest use of the word was in connection with religious missionary activity in the 16th century (Hardwood). Contemporary propaganda for the most part is information or disinformation,†¦show more content†¦Each individual harbors a large number of stereotypes and established tendencies; from this arsenal the propagandist must select those easiest to mobilize, those those which will give the greatest strength to the action he wants to precipitate(Ellul) Every individual already harbors a considerable amount of stereotypes. It is the propagandists job to play on these stereotypes in order to create a strong band of propaganda. These pre-conceived notions, only strengthen the power of propagandists to manipulate, since it is very hard to contradict somebodys personal beliefs or what they hold to be true. In any case, stereotyping is a very strong tool in propaganda and that is why they have such an exceptional relationship. Stereotypes function as the tool that drives the message home to the audience. When it is coupled with propaganda, stereotypes become something that the masses can relate to. If they constantly see the same stereotypes being replayed again and again they certainly will start to buying into the propaganda. In order for propaganda to be successful the propagandist must know the current tendencies and stereotypes of the public that he is trying to reach. (Ellul) When a stereotype is known to the propagandist they will try to milk it for everything it is worth because this is what will help them disseminate their propaganda. An example of stereotyping in propaganda would be a study conducted byShow MoreRelated Propaganda and Stereotyping Essay1382 Words   |  6 PagesPropaganda and Stereotyping Propaganda: a word that is commonly underestimated in its power. Confused with advertisement, people tend to take the disasters caused by propaganda lightly. One such disaster is the stereotype – a felicity confused with the truth. 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