Post 1: Ideology or propaganda



Journalism has always had the biggest impact on society’s values and perceptions but has come under fire in recent years. This revolution against media and it’s influence boomed after the introduction of digital technology and social platforms. However, this was prevalent in the era of Malcom X as well. His quote, “If you’re not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed and loving the people who are doing the oppressing” is a testament to this fact. In fact his denunciation of the American press and media forced the public to recognize the propaganda and lies and doubt their credibility.

During those days the U.S government’s propaganda was to oppress African Americans and the only way for them to do so was to have the public on their side. African Americans were projected as a community of criminals using the high crime statistics in the community by the government through the press. This fed to the obvious hatred the ill-meaning white public had for African Americans. But even worse, it led well-meaning white people to fear them. The newspapers had painted the African Americans as criminals, a menace to society deserving of oppression. The government was the hero who were actively trying to protect their people when in reality, it was the opposite.

Even now his words hold incredible significance. Not only regarding the racism, imperialism and violence among America. It holds true in any propaganda fueled by the media. For example, the ongoing propaganda by the Russian government on the internet through viral videos, trends and comments. The idea seemed absurd and was dismissed by many but there’s evidence a well-funded Internet Research Agency is behind the “memes” and arguments propelling pro-Russian propaganda as well as creating slow division among the American public. They stoked fires on both republican and democratic sides for the sole purpose of creating disharmony and tension and very carefully succeeded in manipulating the public’s views. Unwittingly the American public has let Russia win, even supported them and found themselves divided, oppressed and weak. 

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