Prime Minister Anthony Albanese kicked off his campaign on January 6 and I think we all took a collective deep breath as we braced ourselves for the onslaught of promises that may or may not eventuate and the baby kissing that inevitably ensues. However, his election year activities have really gotten me thinking about propaganda and how the major parties distract from their own failings by manufacturing failings in others.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
I'm sure you remember learning about propaganda in high school history, but perhaps in the emerging world of news via TikTok it is easy to forget that it doesn't only exist in the classroom.
In the realm of politics, propaganda is a powerful tool used by major parties to shape public perception and influence voter behaviour. Recognising propaganda and avoiding the pitfalls of manipulation is crucial for maintaining a healthy democracy.
Political propaganda often relies on emotional triggers, uses selective information that supports a particular viewpoint, and often features repetitive messaging to create the illusion of truth. Most dangerously, propaganda often creates a dichotomy between "us" and "them" to foster division and loyalty to a particular group, while "othering" the political competition.
A glaring example of this is the use of the label "teals" to demonise independent candidates in an effort to paint them as a party masquerading as independents.
However, the strategy to spin the power of the independent movement as a party hiding in plain sight is deeply flawed. At worst, all this means is that the parties are accusing the independent candidates of being... just like them?
Central to this propagandist strategy is touting the acceptance of funding from Climate 200 as a marker for just such a candidate. Feigning outrage at any acceptance of C200 funding on the part of an independent serves to divert attention from the major parties' own sponsor lists and their influence on public policy.
The term teal is used pejoratively to suggest that these candidates are not truly independent but are instead puppets of an external organisation, undermining their credibility and swaying voters away from considering independent options. However, the tactic practically drips with irony given that major parties themselves rely heavily on sponsorship.
For example, the connection between the Liberal National Party and the coal industry is well-documented. This sponsorship has a direct impact on the party's stance on environmental issues, often prioritising industry interests over environmental concerns.
Similarly, billionaire Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest's government contracts highlight the potential for corporate influence on public policy. This type of sponsorship can skew public policy in favour of corporate interests, often at the expense of broader societal needs: remember the Indue Cashless Debit Card program?
In contrast to the opaque sponsorship of major parties, C200's eligibility criteria for funding are based on transparent and value-driven principles. Candidates supported by C200 are expected to demonstrate a commitment to climate action, gender equality, and political integrity. These criteria ensure that the candidates are aligned with the organisation's mission to foster a more sustainable and equitable society. Quelle Horreure!
By demonising independent candidates affiliated with C200, major parties are attempting to divert attention from the substantive issues these candidates represent. Instead of addressing the need for climate action, respect for women, and integrity in politics, the focus is shifted to questioning the legitimacy of the candidates themselves.
I implore you not to be duped by political propaganda. Stay informed and critically evaluate the information presented by political parties and the media. Seek multiple sources, fact-check claims before accepting them, engage in critical thinking and promote informed discussion rather than shutting down conversations based on repeated sound bites from major party mouthpieces.
In recognising political propaganda and avoiding manipulation, we empower ourselves to make informed decisions that reflect our values and priorities. Ensure your vote is placed where you want it and not where the major parties tell you to place it.
Remember, the major parties are in it to win it. Politics is a game - a very expensive, but also, highly profitable game. Step back unblinkered and look at the big picture - what you see may surprise you.
