Examples of Propaganda Techniques: Name Calling

Name Calling/Pinpointing the Enemy:

The techniques of name calling and pinpointing the enemy are used most frequently in times of war and politics but seldom in advertising.

Name calling is the use of derogatory language or words to describe an enemy. This technique is designed to dehumanize and demonize the enemy and to create a sense that the enemy is different from us; he or she is the “other”.

Name calling frequently uses sarcasm and ridicule. When we examine name calling as a propaganda technique we should separate our feelings about the name and our feelings about the actual idea or proposal.

Pinpointing the Enemy:

This technique is used to simplify a complex situation by pinpointing one group or person as the cause of the problem. Although there may be many factors contributing to the problem, the audience is urged to reduce the problem or issues to the fault of one group.

When one is confronted with this type of propaganda technique, one should carefully consider other factors which may be contributing to the problem. The best way to confront this and other propaganda techniques is to investigate a wide and varying spectrum of information about this issue, which includes investigating reliable resources presenting opposing views. An informed person is better armed against this type of propaganda.