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Month: February 2016

Assertion: Students are wired in and tuned out

Assertion: Students are wired in and tuned out

TL;DR Summary Viral photo on social media purports to show that today’s youth are so “wired” they just sit and use their smart phones in a famous art museum. Viewers almost universally adopted that explanation. In reality, the students were likely using the Museum’s provided multimedia app to learn about the artwork. Indeed, a news reporter eventually contacted the students’ teacher and confirmed this. Read on to learn what the photographer who took this photo had to say …

Emotional Appeal: This dog did not dig a hole to be close to a deceased owner

Emotional Appeal: This dog did not dig a hole to be close to a deceased owner

TL;DR Summary Making the rounds on FB again today: “A dog dug a hole in the tomb of his owner, who has just died so he can be close to him. Nothing in the World can Compare with the Love and Loyalty of a Dog for his Friend.” The story is false.  More here and here. As of today, this has been shared over 8,600 times on FB alone.

Humor about propaganda posters to make a point!

Humor about propaganda posters to make a point!

TL;DR Summary This propagandist is using the humorous observation that  many propaganda posters are not true – and twists that to its advantage. Since it is funny, it will be shared more widely. Politifact did rate it true, albeit, after a lengthy explanation. More from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

Accurate use of quote to achieve “transference”, “appeal to authority” and “testimonial”

Accurate use of quote to achieve “transference”, “appeal to authority” and “testimonial”

TL;DR Summary This poster uses the appeal to authority, transference and testimonial methods of propaganda on behalf of the Sanders campaign. The quote is accurate and is used in the context in which Dr. King said this. The intent is to transfer positive feelings and the authority of Dr. King to Bernie Sanders. Overall, this is an effective social media propaganda poster that achieves its goal without being dishonest or exaggerating.