Propaganda, Plain Folking, And Endorsements

Propaganda, you see it everywhere. Sometimes it has bad connotations, other times good. But, what is it? Propaganda is used by advertisers to sell their services or goods to consumers. It is also used by politicians to sell themselves. Politicians need constituents to believe they are the right candidate for the office they are running for. In order to convince constituents of this, they use propaganda. Propaganda can be found in T.V and radio ads, mail, and cheesey slogans. There are many different propaganda techniques, but there are six main methods (Background Essay). Some of the most ethical, informative, and effective techniques are Stacking the Deck, Plain Folking, and Endorsements.

Stacking the Deck is when candidates highlight all

This technique involves making a candidate seem like an average citizen. For example, some candidates might wear jeans and a t-shirt when addressing the public rather than a three piece suit. The Plain Folking method is both ethical and effective.This method would never be considered nefarious because it does not exploit the candidates opponent. The effectiveness of the Plain Folking technique has been validated. During the election of 1952 General Dwight Eisenhower used the Plain Folking method in a T.V ad by saying, “Time to get back to an honest dollar and an honest dollar’s worth.” (Doc. C). He was explaining how he understood the high cost of living. This is an example of Plain Folking because General Eisenhower is describing how he, like an average citizen, understands the hard work put in to earn a paycheck. Because General Eisenhower won the election of 1952, his ad was proven successful and therefore the Plain Folking technique is effective.

Another propaganda technique used by candidates is Endorsements. This method is exactly as it sounds. This is when a candidate gets a well known group or individual to support their campaign. This technique is ethical and effective. As long as the candidate is respectful to the party that is endorsing them this method is completely ethical because it is honest and civil. As for the effectiveness, endorsements spread the word fast. Take the case of Walter Mondale. During