COMS 361 - Lesson 6, Reading Summaries

Introduction

• Lesson 6 focuses on nationalistic propaganda, its role in society, and the formation of national identity.

• Learning Objectives:

  • Acquire theoretical and historical knowledge related to nationalistic propaganda.

  • Recognize and identify nationalistic propaganda in everyday life.

  • Develop critical engagement with propaganda's role in identity and citizenship.

Readings

• Focus on:

  • David Welch’s "Your Country Needs You: The Propaganda of Nationhood and Leadership" from Power and Persuasion (2013).

  • Grace De Sousa’s "Reconstructing an Imagined Community: The Politics of Regional and National Identity in CBC Radio's Jake and the Kid Revival (1969–1970)."

Propaganda and National Identity

• Nations build a sense of identity through cultural histories, myths, and narratives.

• Propaganda serves as a vehicle for these narratives, fostering a collective vision of belonging.

The Concept of a Nation

• Definition and Historical Context:

  • Originates from the Enlightenment period of the 18th century, questioning monarchical authority.

  • Seen as a product of modernity with political/economic implications (Hobswan & Gellner).

  • Anderson defines a nation as an "imagined political community" where members, despite never meeting, share a sense of connection.

Common Points of National Identity

• National identity is formed through symbols, language, culture, music, and shared histories.

• Collective feelings of belonging are solidified during times of celebration (e.g., sports) or crisis.

• Nationality transcends divisions of politics, religion, ethnicity, and region.

Role of National Symbols in Propaganda

• Importance of National Symbols:

  • Reinforce citizenship and belonging, depicted through national achievements and uniqueness.

  • Citizens are persuaded to participate in the national narrative via historical myths and future aspirations.

Iconic Figures

• States employ prominent figures (e.g., Shakespeare, Che Guevara) to construct narratives that support national identity.

• These figures often appear in state-sponsored folklore or as ideological representations.

National Monuments

• Serve as material symbols through which citizens express connection to the state.

• Examples include structures commemorating historical achievements and military victories.

National Anthems

• Musical anthems encapsulate patriotic sentiment, evoking emotional responses and unity.

• Used in formal and informal ceremonies (e.g., sports events).

National Flags

• The flag serves as a strong symbol of national pride and identity.

• In the U.S., connected to the pledge of allegiance; in Canada, embodies national essence through symbols like the maple leaf.

• Flags can also alienate those who feel excluded from the national narrative.

Propaganda at World’s Fairs and Exhibitions

• International exhibitions showcase national achievements, bolstering morale and pride.

• Examples include the Chicago World Fair (1893) which marked advances in electric power.

International Sports and Nationalism

• Events like the Olympics enhance national pride and sentiment.

• Nations display flags and anthems, turning competition into a form of political propaganda.

Propaganda of Leadership

• The 20th century saw the rise of leaders using mass media to create powerful personal images.

• Notable Examples:

  • Benito Mussolini: Embodied the state with a focus on strength and authority.

  • Adolf Hitler: Cultivated a heroic image using all forms of propaganda, leading to disastrous consequences.

  • Nelson Mandela's shift from militant to symbol of reconciliation illustrates the versatility of leadership propaganda.

Conclusion

• Propaganda manifests through multiple mediums: monuments, flags, anthems, and personalities, contributing collectively to national identity.

• De Sousa examines how the CBC's "Jake and the Kid" reconstructs Canadian identity through cultural narrative.

Reflection Questions

• What do these practices reveal about nationalism and propaganda?

• Identify techniques of nationalistic propaganda that have persisted through time.