Marco definitely is realistic about the past and present effects of propaganda and the role it plays in society. It is clear that not only the definition of propaganda has transformed throughout the years, (reference to Linebarger and Doob), but there are many other factors in society causing this change. When Linebarger states how propaganda is, “mass-produced communication…”, I can’t help to ask myself what isn’t a mass-produced communication now a day? If this is the true definition of propaganda, then I think almost every type of communication, whether it is a brand on a billboard, or a logo in a store window, or a banner ad via the Internet are all forms of propaganda. This may very well be true, but then why does the word propaganda even exist? I agree that with every movement we take today, we are hit with either someone trying to bribe us, persuade us, or sell us something. However, I don’t necessarily think that all of these tactics can be considered propaganda. Propaganda, to me, has a certain view or bias. Coming from an advertising major, some advertisements work to please a large target audience. And by pleasing them, it is to appeal to their values and attitudes with a product, not to necessarily change their mind and make them act a different way. It can definitely be a toss up, but I feel that people are taking the term propaganda and spinning it into a powerful evil force that is overtaking society.
I like how Marco was sensitive, yet to the point and honest regarding the article “Representations of Arabs/Arab Americans”. I agree that stereotypes one hundred percent play a role in shaping the public’s view on different races, values, cultures and social standards. However, sometimes stereotypes are shaped based on a specific reason, whether it be a major public event, a political raff, or just a social problem that reoccurs in society. Marco admits that’s stereotypes are in fact more harsh on Arabs and Arab Americans, but this is also partially due to the September 11 attacks and the events that occurred afterwards. Being a New Yorker, a specific event I remember were many Arabs/Arab Americans selling memorabilia’s around ground zero after the attacks. I remember having a sense of anger and wanting to ask them why they were making a business off of the terrible event. This may have been a personal opinion of mine, but it could have also been shaped by propaganda on the news and stereotypes it shaped of Arab/Arab Americans. If the news had never put ideas in my head about these individuals, chances are I would have never felt that way at such a young age. Interesting to think about now looking back on ten years ago.