08_ Understanding Manipulation

 

What is Manipulation?

The action of manipulating someone in a clever or unscrupulous way. In media, it refers to the alteration of information or presentation to influence opinions, emotions, attitudes, or behavior.

 

Techniques of Manipulation (i)

 

·                Emotive language - Using words that carry strong emotional implications (positive or negative) to influence an audience's perception.

Example: Describing protestors as "rioters" or "freedom fighters" depending on the narrative the speaker wishes to promote.

 

·                Visuals - Utilizing dramatic imagery or sound effects to elicit an emotional reaction from the audience, possibly leading to biased interpretations.

Example: A news story about violence uses intense, dramatic music and graphic images to evoke fear or anger.

 

·                Appeal to authority - Using the opinion of an authority figure, or institution of authority, in place of an actual argument, especially when the authority is not really an expert in the field discussed.

Example: A toothpaste commercial claims that "9 out of 10 dentists recommend" this brand, without providing context or details on the survey conducted.

 

 

Techniques of Manipulation (II)

 

·                Cherry picking  - Selecting data or facts that support a particular argument or viewpoint while ignoring conflicting data.

Example: A news outlet reporting on economic policy impacts only cites data from quarters that show improvement, omitting quarters where data might indicate negative outcomes.

 

·                Clickbait - Headlines that capture the audience’s attention by sensationalizing content or omitting crucial information, often leading to misconceptions about the news story.

Example: A headline reads, "Man Bites Dog," while the article reveals it was in self-defence after the dog attacked him.

 

·                False dichotomy - Presenting two options as the only possibilities, when in fact more possibilities exist

Example: A political debate where the options are framed as either supporting increased military spending or not caring about national security

 

Techniques of Manipulation (III)

 

·                Bandwagon effect - Suggesting something is true, good, or well-liked because it is popular with many people.

Example: An ad campaign emphasizes that "everyone is switching to our brand," encouraging others to follow the crowd.

 

·                Omission of context - Leaving out key information to shape public perception.

Example: Reporting on a politician's speech about crime increases without noting that the statistics used were from a non-representative sample or a particularly volatile period.

 

·                Attacks - Attacking the character or traits of the person making an argument rather than the argument itself.

Example: Discrediting an environmentalist's valid points on climate change by criticizing their lifestyle choices.

 

 

Manipulation in media can distort truth and influence public opinion. Stay informed and question what you see and hear.

 

By recognizing and understanding manipulation tactics, we can protect ourselves from misinformation and contribute to a more informed society.