When we consider propaganda as the attempt to shape the thoughts and feelings of others, in ways conforming to the aims of the communicator, we find a vast array of different examples throughout history.

There is arguably something wrong with a method of persuasion that cannot pass the test of publicity.

Exposure as a propagandist is fatal to the would-be persuader.

Once we recognize the power of propaganda, we need to ask whether its exercise is consistent with those democratic ideals to which lip-service is commonly accorded.

It is true that advertising often gives information and is valuable for doing so, but some forms of advertising give precious little information, and even that little is wrong.

In a general way, a major goal of the propagandist is to seek some kind of authoritative backing for the belief he or she is propagating.

The best goal for propaganda analysis is to develop such an understanding of the phenomenon that it will no longer be profitable for people to engage in it.