Propaganda is defined differently according to different sources, but all kinds of propaganda have the same goal. For example, the Dictionary of American History defines propaganda as the deliberate use of information, images, and ideas to affect public opinion. (Friedman) Propaganda is also defined as a systematic, deliberate attempt to convince people to adopt a particular cause, set of beliefs, or course of action. ("propaganda.") Finally, Harold Lass defined …show more content…
(Osgood) Although there are different definitions of propaganda, it has the same goal: to gain people’s trust, keep it simple, but attractive by having a good use of symbols. To reach this goal underhand methods like lying, distortion, and concealment are used. There are three ways it appeals to people: 1) it calls for an action or opinion that makes it seem wise, and responsible, 2) the action, or opinion is moral, or right 3) it provides a pleasant feeling, and sense of importance or belonging. These techniques all resemble persuasive speaking. (Stults) There are three types of propaganda were these methods are put to good use: black, white, and grey. First there is black propaganda. This propaganda camouflages the sponsor's …show more content…
The propaganda is spread via radio, newspapers, and television. That way it reaches large audiences domestic or international. Most terrorist prefer to use armed propaganda. Armed propaganda is propaganda that sends a message through symbolic violence like hostage beheadings, embassy bombings, airplane hijackings, assaults on occupying troops, etc. The attacks are intended to attract more supporters to the perpetrators' cause. This kind of propaganda is falls into the category terrorism experts call “propaganda by deed”. “Propaganda by deed” is propaganda that uses actions to demonstrate the strength of the perpetrators and the weakness of the opposition. The purpose of propaganda by deed is to attract others to the cause. By disrupting daily life in a particular place, terrorists hope that its citizens will demand that the government accommodate their wishes.