Dave Troy Presents

How to Win an Information War with Peter Pomerantsev

Oct 31, 2024

In this captivating discussion, Peter Pomerantsev, a disinformation expert and author, delves into his latest work on information warfare. He shares insights from his research on Sefton Delmer, a journalist who crafted unique methods to combat Nazi propaganda. The conversation spans Pomerantsev's experiences in Russia's media landscape, the psychology behind propaganda, and the use of emotional manipulation in wartime communications. He emphasizes the importance of fostering community and independent thought to resist oppressive narratives, drawing parallels to today's challenges.

43:41

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Episode guests

Peter Pomeransev

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Pomerantsev emphasizes the significance of emotional engagement in propaganda, showcasing Sefton Delmer's strategies to undermine Nazi narratives through humor and relatable content.

Applying Delmer's principles today, effective information campaigns should focus on community building and addressing emotional aspects of identity to counter populist rhetoric.

Deep dives

Peter Pomerantsev's Background and Motivation

Peter Pomerantsev shares his unique background in media, particularly his early experiences working in reality television in Russia during Putin's rise to power. He observed the intertwining of entertainment and authoritarianism, noting how disinformation and propaganda evolved in this context. His first book, "Nothing is True and Everything is Possible," explores this complex reality, reflecting on how societies can shift towards authoritarianism amidst disinformation. Pomerantsev's insights are informed by his firsthand experiences, which ultimately motivate his ongoing work in media and academia.

Intro

2min

Entertainment and Authoritarianism: A Personal Exploration

10min

The Psychology of Propaganda in Nazi Germany

7min

Subversive Waves: Media War Against the Nazis

16min

Resisting Oppression Through Community and Communication

7min

In this special bonus episode, Dave interviews author Peter Pomerantsev about his new book "How to Win an Information War: The Propagandist Who Outwitted Hitler." The book explores the work of Sefton Delmer, a journalist who developed unique ways to destabilize Hitler's propaganda programming. Their conversation was recorded on October 28, 2024, at Bird In Hand Books in Baltimore, Maryland.

Pomerantsev is the author of two other books on disinformation and propaganda, "Nothing Is True and Everything is Possible," and "This Is Not Propaganda." He is currently based at the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University.

Pomerantsev also delivered a TED Talk at TEDxMidAtlantic in Washington, D.C. in June 2024.

Links:

TED Talk (2024)

How To Win an Information War (2024)

This Is Not Propaganda (2019)

Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible (2014)