I hear it used all the time, but noticed I don’t know exactly what it means. The actual definition of it is very broad.
“The spreading of ideas, information, or rumor for the purpose of helping or injuring an institution, a cause, or a person.”
However, this doesn’t quite feel like how the word is often used. I’ve only ever seen it used with a negative connotation. If I were to spread information about climate change for the planet, am I spreading propaganda?
In: Other
That definition is technically correct, but the general usage of the term has connotations of being psychologically manipulative in some way. Either through emotional appeals, flashy or exaggerated visuals, fearmongering, etc.
It is also notable that this is a very intentional action. If you happen to mention something about climate change, that’s less likely to be considered propaganda than if you printed out a bunch of fliers and posted them all over town.
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