THIS IS REVOLUTION >podcast

EP. 722: ONE IDEA TO RULE THEM ALL: THE REVERSE ENGINEERING OF AMERICAN PROPAGANDA ft. Michelle Stiles

Apr 2, 2025
Michelle Stiles, author of "One Idea, How Media Shapes Public Opinion in the Age of Corporate Domination," shares insights on the intricate world of media manipulation. She discusses how propaganda has evolved since the 20th century, highlighting the powerful impact of 'Idea Bullies' who shape public discourse. Stiles emphasizes the dangers of corporate influence in news and the challenges of navigating truth in an age saturated with misinformation. The conversation also touches on teaching younger generations about free speech and critical thinking in media.
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INSIGHT

Idea Syndicate's Influence

  • Every society operates under a dominant "idea syndicate", not just one monolithic idea.
  • Corporations manipulate ideas for profit, influencing public opinion through various means.
ANECDOTE

Torches of Freedom

  • Edward Bernays, Freud's nephew, pioneered propaganda and stagecraft in PR.
  • The "Torches of Freedom" campaign falsely linked smoking to women's suffrage, manipulating public perception.
ANECDOTE

Four-Minute Men

  • During WWI, the "Four-Minute Men" speakers' bureau spread pro-war messages in movie theaters.
  • These speeches, disguised as spontaneous, actually disseminated Washington's talking points.
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