CH 12; Toxic Sludge: March 30
This is the final entry in my blog for WRH 315-01. After this, there is much more work to be done! We have a collaborative propaganda project and research paper due within a close and short amount of time. Also, 12 is the final chapter in Toxic Sludge is Good for You.
Like unSpun, this chapter stresses the importance of opposition research. This goes hand-in-hand with asking questions and solidifying facts. Ask the right questions, research the information, and you’ll discover fact from fiction. This is important to assure that you are making the right decisions and believing accurate information. These are the main lessons I have learned from both of the books. Propaganda is a tricky business and one can easily fall into the traps of the trade. It is vital for an individual to make himself/herself aware of these tricks and/or at least takes the time to research information. If an individual does take the time to do so he/she will not fall victim to the world false advertising.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
March 23
CH 11; Toxic Sludge: March 23
What is fit to print? Part of this chapter touches on the idea that certain things are published in the newspaper; e.g. mostly facts and the raw truth. When it comes to schoolbooks, however, information is sometimes sugarcoated. As a result, students (who aren’t informed on current events) will generally trust what is in their books. They won’t bother to research a topic beyond that, unless they have to. Therefore, they are missing out on the whole truth.
Also, they chapter made another interesting point. Today, due to popular culture, reporters are viewed differently than the strict professionals they are. The image of the profession has been altered by plays, movies, television programs, and books. I particularly liked the example of Clark Kent. He’s you average reporter, but of course is secretly the superhero, Superman. He spends the majority of his time rescuing people from danger; especially those following journalistic leads.
Another example could be Peter Parker. He was a photo journalist, but before he took this job a phenomenon occurred. He was bit by a radioactive spider and once again, we witness another journalist with supernatural powers.
Superman and Spiderman are merely popular culture representations of the new ways journalists are portrayed in today’s society. The two heroes alone have comic books, movies, and even action figures portraying themselves.
Popular culture has involved the news and the individuals who report it in various forms of media. Therefore, the presentation of current events is viewed differently than it was years ago.
What is fit to print? Part of this chapter touches on the idea that certain things are published in the newspaper; e.g. mostly facts and the raw truth. When it comes to schoolbooks, however, information is sometimes sugarcoated. As a result, students (who aren’t informed on current events) will generally trust what is in their books. They won’t bother to research a topic beyond that, unless they have to. Therefore, they are missing out on the whole truth.
Also, they chapter made another interesting point. Today, due to popular culture, reporters are viewed differently than the strict professionals they are. The image of the profession has been altered by plays, movies, television programs, and books. I particularly liked the example of Clark Kent. He’s you average reporter, but of course is secretly the superhero, Superman. He spends the majority of his time rescuing people from danger; especially those following journalistic leads.
Another example could be Peter Parker. He was a photo journalist, but before he took this job a phenomenon occurred. He was bit by a radioactive spider and once again, we witness another journalist with supernatural powers.
Superman and Spiderman are merely popular culture representations of the new ways journalists are portrayed in today’s society. The two heroes alone have comic books, movies, and even action figures portraying themselves.
Popular culture has involved the news and the individuals who report it in various forms of media. Therefore, the presentation of current events is viewed differently than it was years ago.
March 16
CH 10; Toxic Sludge: March 16
Alright I’ll admit it, I miss unSpun. I definitely liked it more than Toxic Sludge is Good for You. Nonetheless, here we go-
There is a section in Chapter 10 titled "Flacking for the Fascists," which has a quote that caught my attention. "Governments that murder and jail their critics don’t particularly need to worry about maintaining an attractive image among their own people," (148). First, I am disturbed to think that some counties do this. It is unfortunate that not every county is blessed with the freedom of speech. Considering that a critic’s job is to criticize, one shouldn’t get punished for doing their duty. If the Government is so concerned about the image they portray to their people then they should focus on the good of their people. Then critics would have only positive critiques too report.
Second, with a risk of incarceration and even death, who would ever want to be a critic in those particular countries? Also, who one earth wants to live in country where the Government doesn’t feel the need to worry about maintaining a positive image for their people? This leads me to believe these country(ies) are not concerned about their citizens. I certainly would not want to live anywhere with such low morale.
Alright I’ll admit it, I miss unSpun. I definitely liked it more than Toxic Sludge is Good for You. Nonetheless, here we go-
There is a section in Chapter 10 titled "Flacking for the Fascists," which has a quote that caught my attention. "Governments that murder and jail their critics don’t particularly need to worry about maintaining an attractive image among their own people," (148). First, I am disturbed to think that some counties do this. It is unfortunate that not every county is blessed with the freedom of speech. Considering that a critic’s job is to criticize, one shouldn’t get punished for doing their duty. If the Government is so concerned about the image they portray to their people then they should focus on the good of their people. Then critics would have only positive critiques too report.
Second, with a risk of incarceration and even death, who would ever want to be a critic in those particular countries? Also, who one earth wants to live in country where the Government doesn’t feel the need to worry about maintaining a positive image for their people? This leads me to believe these country(ies) are not concerned about their citizens. I certainly would not want to live anywhere with such low morale.
Spring Break
Conclusion; unSun: Spring Break 2009
How does one stay unSpun? I figure that this is important aspect to touch on since I am finishing the book. The most important concept I took from the novel is to ASK QUESTIONS! Naturally, I am a curious person; I always ask questions and like to explore. When it comes to propaganda, in order to not fall into the tricks of the trade, one must ask questions and research information before they take it to heart.
Also, appreciate facts. This goes hand-in-hand with asking questions. Ideally, if you ask you’ll know truth from lies. Propaganda advertises in the best interest of whatever it is promoting. One must watch out for this and ASK; otherwise they can be subjected to misleading information/propaganda. I certainly prefer fact over fiction, as do many others. Ask questions, research, and get the correct answers and you won’t fall into a whirlwind of false advertising.
How does one stay unSpun? I figure that this is important aspect to touch on since I am finishing the book. The most important concept I took from the novel is to ASK QUESTIONS! Naturally, I am a curious person; I always ask questions and like to explore. When it comes to propaganda, in order to not fall into the tricks of the trade, one must ask questions and research information before they take it to heart.
Also, appreciate facts. This goes hand-in-hand with asking questions. Ideally, if you ask you’ll know truth from lies. Propaganda advertises in the best interest of whatever it is promoting. One must watch out for this and ASK; otherwise they can be subjected to misleading information/propaganda. I certainly prefer fact over fiction, as do many others. Ask questions, research, and get the correct answers and you won’t fall into a whirlwind of false advertising.
February 23, 2009
CH 8; unSpun: Feb 23
Firstly, I am sticking with unSpun, because I dig it. The first line in this chapter reads, "Sometimes even the most authoritative source can let us down…". This past semester I researched information regarding to such.
In 2005 an extreme case of professional misconduct was published in Newsweek. An article falsely informed readers that U.S. military personnel, stationed at Guantanamo Bay, had flushed a copy of the Koran down the toilet. The story enraged readers so deeply that riots broke out worldwide, some even resulting in death. By the time Newsweek retracted the article it was too late; damage had already been done. I believe these were not the intentions of the writer, but rather he/she was merely concerned with self-interests. Writers who falsify, plagiarize, or embellish their pieces are driven by a philosophical framework called ethical egoism. This means that the writer is basing the story on maximizing self-interests and not those of the media.
This is an excellent example to prove the above quote. Millions of individuals trust Newsweek to inform them about what is going on in the world. This popular magazine let readers down. They published misinformation; therefore individuals must be careful as to what they read and whether or not to trust it.
Firstly, I am sticking with unSpun, because I dig it. The first line in this chapter reads, "Sometimes even the most authoritative source can let us down…". This past semester I researched information regarding to such.
In 2005 an extreme case of professional misconduct was published in Newsweek. An article falsely informed readers that U.S. military personnel, stationed at Guantanamo Bay, had flushed a copy of the Koran down the toilet. The story enraged readers so deeply that riots broke out worldwide, some even resulting in death. By the time Newsweek retracted the article it was too late; damage had already been done. I believe these were not the intentions of the writer, but rather he/she was merely concerned with self-interests. Writers who falsify, plagiarize, or embellish their pieces are driven by a philosophical framework called ethical egoism. This means that the writer is basing the story on maximizing self-interests and not those of the media.
This is an excellent example to prove the above quote. Millions of individuals trust Newsweek to inform them about what is going on in the world. This popular magazine let readers down. They published misinformation; therefore individuals must be careful as to what they read and whether or not to trust it.
Febuary 18, 2009
CH 7; unSpun : Feb 18
Okay, this chapter was a little too political for me – I cannot stand politics, but I’ll work with it. I’ve always heard that in some form or another, our country was aware of the 9/11 attacks. So I wasn’t shocked to read that within weeks of the 9/11 tragedy, emails began to circulate pertaining to this idea. Apparently the individual sending the emails claimed that Oliver North had been warning Congress of such attacks since 1987. Even Al Gore are warned, but nothing was done; although, this is only speculated.
We all know that Osama bin Laden is one of the world’s evilest men alive or dead, who knows? He’s right up there with Hussein, but at least he got what he deserved. Osama on the other hand seems to be a mystery; even in 2009. This disturbs me deeply. That monster needs to be caught and assassinated. I was pleased when Hussein was hung and I would like to see the same happen to bin Laden.
On another note, we now have a new President. I have already noted that I am not political, but I have heard the prediction that 9/11 was only the beginning of terrorist attacks within the United States. As a member of the Y Generation, I fear for what may happen next. Obama is now in office and really, there is a new Presidency to impact. I am merely going off the bits and pieces that I have heard, but it needs to be stopped. Osama needs to be found and killed. Terrorist groups need to be sought out and destroyed.
I am a lover not a fighter, but something SERIOUSLY needs to be done. Our country needs to take more control and focus on terrorism. Put the War on Drugs on hold and focus on those who can unrightfully kill hundreds of Americans and destroy their families. I like to believe that we are a good country with a good head on our shoulders; lets focus on beating terrorism before something worse occurs.
Okay, this chapter was a little too political for me – I cannot stand politics, but I’ll work with it. I’ve always heard that in some form or another, our country was aware of the 9/11 attacks. So I wasn’t shocked to read that within weeks of the 9/11 tragedy, emails began to circulate pertaining to this idea. Apparently the individual sending the emails claimed that Oliver North had been warning Congress of such attacks since 1987. Even Al Gore are warned, but nothing was done; although, this is only speculated.
We all know that Osama bin Laden is one of the world’s evilest men alive or dead, who knows? He’s right up there with Hussein, but at least he got what he deserved. Osama on the other hand seems to be a mystery; even in 2009. This disturbs me deeply. That monster needs to be caught and assassinated. I was pleased when Hussein was hung and I would like to see the same happen to bin Laden.
On another note, we now have a new President. I have already noted that I am not political, but I have heard the prediction that 9/11 was only the beginning of terrorist attacks within the United States. As a member of the Y Generation, I fear for what may happen next. Obama is now in office and really, there is a new Presidency to impact. I am merely going off the bits and pieces that I have heard, but it needs to be stopped. Osama needs to be found and killed. Terrorist groups need to be sought out and destroyed.
I am a lover not a fighter, but something SERIOUSLY needs to be done. Our country needs to take more control and focus on terrorism. Put the War on Drugs on hold and focus on those who can unrightfully kill hundreds of Americans and destroy their families. I like to believe that we are a good country with a good head on our shoulders; lets focus on beating terrorism before something worse occurs.
Monday, February 16, 2009
I FINALLY got "Toxic Sludge is Good for You!"
When I first applied to West Chester I had every intention of declaring Communications as my major. My goal was to become a public relations specialist or something of that nature. Like the book mentions, I was aware of PR, but I didn't really know what it was. I understood that it had to do with establishing image and that's generally it. Nonetheless, I aspired for a career in that field.
When it came time to declare my major, my advisor suggested a new path for me. She informed me of a new major at WCU, called English B.A., Writing Track, which she believed I would do very well in. My grades in completed writing emphasis courses were higher than my others, so she had me there and I love to write. My next concern in discussing my future was what could I do with such a degree, besides the obvious. She listed a range of different career opportunities, including positions in PR. I think this is what sold me, because once my mind is set, it's set. So I declared the suggested major and today I stand.
So what's my point? After reading the beginning of "Toxic Sludge is Good for You," this scenario popped into my head. Although I don't have a solid idea of what public relations is I continue to have an interest in the field, which drives my educaton. I feel this book will expose me to both informative and raw aspects of public relations, especially those related to propagada.
For example, I didn't realize that PR is a relatively new industry. So new and prosperous that the U.S. has not yet established how much money is spent annually on PR. Also, it can be a very sneaky and secretive industry.
According to the text, "The best PR is never noticed." I believe this to be true and possibly the reason why the PR field has been unclear to me. If PR is considered successful on a scale of whether or not it is noticed, it seems to be nonexistant. Now I feel more aware of it.
When it came time to declare my major, my advisor suggested a new path for me. She informed me of a new major at WCU, called English B.A., Writing Track, which she believed I would do very well in. My grades in completed writing emphasis courses were higher than my others, so she had me there and I love to write. My next concern in discussing my future was what could I do with such a degree, besides the obvious. She listed a range of different career opportunities, including positions in PR. I think this is what sold me, because once my mind is set, it's set. So I declared the suggested major and today I stand.
So what's my point? After reading the beginning of "Toxic Sludge is Good for You," this scenario popped into my head. Although I don't have a solid idea of what public relations is I continue to have an interest in the field, which drives my educaton. I feel this book will expose me to both informative and raw aspects of public relations, especially those related to propagada.
For example, I didn't realize that PR is a relatively new industry. So new and prosperous that the U.S. has not yet established how much money is spent annually on PR. Also, it can be a very sneaky and secretive industry.
According to the text, "The best PR is never noticed." I believe this to be true and possibly the reason why the PR field has been unclear to me. If PR is considered successful on a scale of whether or not it is noticed, it seems to be nonexistant. Now I feel more aware of it.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
2.1.09 Chapter 5
Chapter 5 is full of advice on how to steer clear of bad information. Throughout the chapters, I have noticed the popular act of questioning in unspinning oneself. Chapter 5 is no different by first suggesting, "Getting the facts right is important," and then goes on to share an analogy of a worse-case scenario, pertaining to bad information. Overall, the instance could have been prevented if the individual did a little active questioning of the poor information he received. I agree, many can prevent falling for bad info if they research and explore solidity of the subject matter. We need to search for facts.
The "Grey Goose Effect" was interesting. I enjoyed how the section broke down marketing tactics, which cause Grey Goose Vodka to be considered a sophisticated, high-quality, smooth brand of Vodka. By raising the price, having an attractive appearance, and advertising its sophistication, the brand is able to maintain a high-class popularity and association. However, things are not always as they appear. That is why we need to question things more often; to ultimately seek out the truth in the matter. In the instance pertaining to Grey Goose Vodka, the alcohol is a mixture of distilled vodka mixed with water. The consumer can be easily fooled, unless they take the time to identify facts. In doing so, one is on a successful path to becoming unspun in a world full of propaganda.
The "Grey Goose Effect" was interesting. I enjoyed how the section broke down marketing tactics, which cause Grey Goose Vodka to be considered a sophisticated, high-quality, smooth brand of Vodka. By raising the price, having an attractive appearance, and advertising its sophistication, the brand is able to maintain a high-class popularity and association. However, things are not always as they appear. That is why we need to question things more often; to ultimately seek out the truth in the matter. In the instance pertaining to Grey Goose Vodka, the alcohol is a mixture of distilled vodka mixed with water. The consumer can be easily fooled, unless they take the time to identify facts. In doing so, one is on a successful path to becoming unspun in a world full of propaganda.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
1.25.09 CH 4
I thought the section about the psychology of deception was interesting. Ultimately, the human mind wants to depend on the beliefs and information it already knows; even if evidence opposing the ideas are overwhelming. One aspect of the article touches again on the notion that language does our thinking for us. This idea is something that we cannot avoid. Overall, I agree with the concept. It isn't a matter of intelligence, but rather a matter of whether or not we take the intiative to stop and look at the larger picture. In doing so we can identify fact from fiction or override the beliefs that we hold onto. However, many individuals hold what they hear as truth, especially if it matches what they already think. As a result we end up holding onto bad information.
Overall, I really enjoyed the psychological route of the chapter. The study of the mind is something that I have always been interested in and it was neat to see it applied to propaganda. There are many traps that the mind can fall into, which prevent us from being informed accurately. By taking a closer look at these traps and concepts I feel that I will look twice as close at a particular ad, campaign, etc. in hopes to find the honest truth of the matter. Ultimately this is the objective of the text, which is to get us to take a better look at propaganda and find the truth within it.
Overall, I really enjoyed the psychological route of the chapter. The study of the mind is something that I have always been interested in and it was neat to see it applied to propaganda. There are many traps that the mind can fall into, which prevent us from being informed accurately. By taking a closer look at these traps and concepts I feel that I will look twice as close at a particular ad, campaign, etc. in hopes to find the honest truth of the matter. Ultimately this is the objective of the text, which is to get us to take a better look at propaganda and find the truth within it.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
"unSpun" Response 1.20.09
I found Chapter Three to be pretty interesting. It gave me a better look at how to read between the lines and overall, be able to analyze propaganda-type trickery. The idea that "language does our thinking for us" (pg 45) caught my attention. I believe this is true. Each individual has a conceived connection and/or idea about the meaning of a word. For example, my best friend, Steph, asks me to describe a female classmate. I offer that the individual has long hair and it short. Now consider this, I am 5 foot 10 inches and Steph is 5 foot 2 inches. Therefore, I perceive the female to be short, however Steph could consider her tall, if there is a height difference. Also, Steph's hair used to be considerably longer than mine, so the same idea applies. She may think differently of the word. In the end, we probably have a completely different idea of what the female looks like, because the language I chose did the "thinking" for us. The language used created the image.
I used to be a sales representative for Cutco knives. Trick #3, Weasel Words, really reminded me of this job. One scenario I can think of is our choice of the word "free". Sales reps were trained to go through a spiel, while showing off the merchandise, and then it was time to convince the perspective buyer to purchase. Of course we were trained to shoot high by selling large sets of knives and downsize from there, according to perceived interested. However, in order to aim high and be successful we were allowed to whip out that magic word "free". With the largest knife set you could offer other "free" items to go along with it. The trickery is that the other items aren't technically free. The knife sets are priced higher in the event that you would need to offer a "free" item. Therefore, the buyer is really paying for all the items, but think they are getting a deal. Tricky, tricky.
I used to be a sales representative for Cutco knives. Trick #3, Weasel Words, really reminded me of this job. One scenario I can think of is our choice of the word "free". Sales reps were trained to go through a spiel, while showing off the merchandise, and then it was time to convince the perspective buyer to purchase. Of course we were trained to shoot high by selling large sets of knives and downsize from there, according to perceived interested. However, in order to aim high and be successful we were allowed to whip out that magic word "free". With the largest knife set you could offer other "free" items to go along with it. The trickery is that the other items aren't technically free. The knife sets are priced higher in the event that you would need to offer a "free" item. Therefore, the buyer is really paying for all the items, but think they are getting a deal. Tricky, tricky.
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