Propaganda Techniques
I wanted to focus on some especially prevalent propaganda techniques you can find in new as well as old media sources. I narrowed it down to the seven most infamous and commonly used methods; Glittering Generalities, Name Calling, Bandwagon, Plain Folks, Testimonial, Transfer and Card Stacking. These techniques were collected and illustrated by the Institute for Propaganda Analysis back in 1937.
Each technique was given an separate publication with a corresponding pictogram
To capture the universality of propaganda I chose very simple icons that would embody a feeling or an idea that is common knowledge to us all.
The result
In short, I designed a group of publications that would
give the reader the visual effect of propaganda, but also
explain the propaganda technique implemented after having
been exposed to the strong imagery. Simplification and neutrality
was used to emphasize how propaganda is not limited
to one country or party, but is present eveywhere. Boldness
and exaggeration seen in the publications mimics real propaganda
and the effect it has on citizens who interact with
it. Finally, since this issue is still relevant in the modern day,
even if they seem like antiquated concepts, so I used modern
typefaces and illustrations.
The spreads are separated like a typical newspaper and tied together with twine, a fitting choice since even accredited news sources have subtle biases. The pages also can serve as alone-standing posters.
With each tabloid, a sticker sheet with the same main icon was included, representing the ease of spreading of propaganda, especially after one has been exposed and influenced by it.
On the backside of each publication, an explanation of the propaganda technique is given, allowing the reader to look deeper into the feeling evoked from the visuals. It is written in small type, as only those who put and effort to question media will be able to give it attention.
