Propaganda and the Military: A Beginner's Guide in Shaping Attitudes and Behavior

Abstract

This presentation begins by defining propaganda, examining its origins, and reviewing its general applications. Further, propaganda can be "value neutral," and considerations of morality relate importantly to its objectives and desired outcomes. The presentation then focuses largely on the effective use wartime posters and statues, dividing them into categories based on their common use of certain images and their desired impact. Similar examples from popular culture, politics, and the arts emphasize the effectiveness of these maneuvers. The presentation then shifts back to wartime posters arranged by their primary objective: encouraging secrecy, dehumanizing the enemy, promoting national values, recruiting for the military, mobilizing the nation's citizenry, and distrusting enemy propaganda. The presentation is for educational purposes only. It should not be used commercially. The views, opinions, and findings presented here do not necessarily reflect those of any government department or agency.