- Propaganda refers to the deliberate and systematic attempt to shape perceptions, manipulate cognitions and direct behavior to achieve a response that furthers the desired intent of the propagandist. This tool of ideological, physical or economic conflict is typically aimed at more than one person wielded by an organized group. - Garth Jowett and Victoria O'Donnell (1986)
- Propaganda is closely related to ideology, but the terms have distinct meanings. Ideology refers to shared values and beliefs often experienced as natural, that shape individuals understandings of institutions and social relationships (Sturken and Cartwright 2001). Churches, schools, family and the media are some of the institutions responsible for the transmission of ideology. (Althusser 1996)
- In contrast Propaganda is developed by an organized group and systematically disseminated with the intent of prompting certain attitudes and behaviors.
The book gives a quick but informative description of what the basics of propaganda are and how this is reflected in society and games design in particular. However it also raised an interesting point that I would like to take further:
- Education is a process that systematically influences perceptions, cognitions and behavior. Teachers and propagandists both seek to transform audience attitudes and behavior, and the underlying persuasive processes are closely related.
I found this point really interesting as it raises some interesting questions. If children were allowed to learn at their own pace and in their own way through play in video game playspaces it would allow the child to form his own views and ideas without the pressure of conforming to societies rituals. On the other hand this could also be incredibly dangerous as the game would have to be produced by someone. I think eduction would be a good area to do more research into for my dissertation. From this point I would like to continue to look at games as a persuasive medium, still focusing on the same book.
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