Five Old Tricks

In 1937, the Institute for Propaganda Analysis named seven tactics still used today. Five of the sharpest:

• Name-calling — labeling opponents so you can dismiss them without argument
• Glittering generalities — vague feel-good words (freedom, progress) that mean anything
• Transfer — borrowing the prestige of a flag, science, or religion
• Testimonial — a trusted figure endorses the message
• Plain folks — leaders posing as ordinary people "just like you"