Exploring the origins of Big Oil's propaganda machine and its effectiveness, from Standard Oil to the first P.R. guy. Uncovering the manipulation of public perception through historical tactics. Investigating the influence of Ivy Ledbetter Lee in shaping corporate propaganda for Rockefeller and Standard Oil.
Big Oil's propaganda machine draws on old tactics, including greenwashing to shape perceptions.
Ivy Lee's PR strategies, like corporate philanthropy, influence modern oil companies' disinformation campaigns.
Deep dives
The Origins of Big Oil's Propaganda Machine
Big Oil has a long history of using propaganda strategies to influence public opinion and protect its image. They've adopted tactics from the tobacco industry, aiming to promote themselves as green companies. These efforts go beyond science denial and include creating positive perceptions through extensive advertising and PR campaigns. By shaping American opinions on energy and the environment, Big Oil's propaganda machine continues to be effective.
The Influence of Ivy Ledbetter Lee on Oil Industry Propaganda
Ivy Ledbetter Lee, considered the father of public relations, played a key role in shaping the image of the oil industry. He successfully rehabilitated John D. Rockefeller's tarnished reputation after the Ludlow Massacre. Lee's tactics included creating fake stories to sway public opinion and portraying Rockefeller as a philanthropist. His strategies, like using corporate philanthropy as PR, are evident in today's oil companies' disinformation campaigns.
Historical Impact of Standard Oil and Propaganda in Oil Industry
Standard Oil's influence, led by figures like John D. Rockefeller and Ivy Ledbetter Lee, has had a lasting impact on today's oil giants. Their use of propaganda laid the foundation for modern corporate public relations and image management. By employing tactics such as fake news and crisis actors, the oil industry has successfully redirected attention from its negative actions, shaping public perceptions in its favor.
In this season we're tackling Big Oil's big propaganda machine—its origins, the spin masters who created it, and why it's been so effective. It all began more than 100 years ago with Standard Oil, John D. Rockefeller and his son, a bloody miners' strike, and the very first P.R. guy, who swooped in to clean it all up.