Part Two: Edward Bernays: The Founding Father of Lies

Jul 25, 2019

Jamie Loftus, a talented comedian and writer known for her engaging storytelling, joins to delve into the fascinating legacy of Edward Bernays, the father of modern public relations. They discuss how Bernays transformed breakfast culture by popularizing bacon through dubious health claims. The conversation shifts to his manipulative tactics concerning U.S. involvement in Guatemala, revealing the ethical dilemmas of propaganda. Loftus adds humor and personal anecdotes, highlighting the absurdity and impact of these marketing strategies on society.

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INSIGHT

Bacon's Health Risks Revealed

The WHO later confirmed processed meats like bacon increase bowel cancer risk, causing thousands of deaths annually.
Bernays didn't know bacon's health risks but knowingly lied to boost consumption for profit.

INSIGHT

Invisible Government Controls Masses

Bernays admitted that a hidden group manipulates public opinion, shaping tastes and ideas without the masses knowing.
He believed this invisible government was the true power controlling society.

INSIGHT

Bernays’ Elitist View of Masses

Bernays saw the masses as dumb and dangerous, needing elite guidance to channel desires productively.
His elitist liberalism justified manipulating public opinion for profit and control.

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Crystallizing Public Opinion

Edward L. Bernays

Crystallizing Public Opinion, published in 1923, is one of the first books to define and explain the field of public relations. It outlines principles for shaping public opinion through careful study of group psychology and strategic communication. Bernays discusses how public relations counselors can effectively influence public opinion by understanding and leveraging stereotypes, herd mentality, and emotional appeals.

Propaganda

Edward Bernays

In 'Propaganda,' Edward Bernays lays out his vision for using propaganda to influence various aspects of society, including government, politics, art, science, and education. The book discusses the 'conscious and intelligent manipulation of the organized habits and opinions of the masses' as an essential element in democratic society. Bernays argues that this manipulation is carried out by an 'invisible government' of professional propagandists who shape public thoughts, values, and responses. The book explores the psychological and social science basis of propaganda and its application in different fields, highlighting its potential for both beneficial and detrimental uses[2][3][5].

Public Opinion

Stefano di Lorenzo

Walter Lippmann

In 'Public Opinion', Walter Lippmann explores the nature of public opinion, how it is formed, and its influence on democratic processes. Published in 1922, the book critiques the ideal of direct democracy and argues that the public's perceptions are often shaped by incomplete and inaccurate information. Lippmann discusses the role of media, stereotypes, and other factors in shaping public opinion, highlighting the challenges in achieving informed and rational public discourse.

The father of spin

Edward L. Bernays & the birth of public relations

Larry Tye

In 'The Father of Spin', Larry Tye presents a comprehensive biography of Edward L. Bernays, one of the first and most influential practitioners of public relations. Drawing on interviews and Bernays's private papers, Tye examines how Bernays used psychological insights, often borrowed from his uncle Sigmund Freud, to mold public opinion and shape consumer behavior. The book delves into Bernays's significant contributions to the field, which have had lasting impacts on both political discourse and commercial marketing.