The best 14 Propaganda books

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Propaganda Books: Public Opinion by Walter Lippmann

Public Opinion

Walter Lippmann
Uncover the Hidden Forces Shaping Public Perception
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What's Public Opinion about?

Public Opinion (1922) offers valuable insights into how media and psychological factors shape our perceptions of the world and influence public opinion. It provides a thought-provoking analysis of how “reality” can be distorted and how our understanding and decision-making, as well as public opinion, can be influenced.

Who should read Public Opinion?

  • Political science buffs
  • People worried about democracy
  • Anyone interested in media literacy

2
Propaganda Books: American Pravda by James O'Keefe

American Pravda

James O'Keefe

What's American Pravda about?

American Pravda by James O'Keefe delves into the world of undercover journalism and exposes the hidden truths behind some of the biggest news stories in America. O'Keefe challenges the mainstream media and reveals their biases and agendas, offering a thought-provoking look at the state of journalism in the digital age.

Who should read American Pravda?

  • Readers who are skeptical of mainstream media and want to uncover hidden truths

  • Individuals interested in investigative journalism and undercover reporting

  • Those who want to understand the impact of media bias and manipulation on society


3
Propaganda Books: Bending Spines by Randall L. Bytwerk

Bending Spines

Randall L. Bytwerk

What's Bending Spines about?

Bending Spines by Randall L. Bytwerk delves into the world of propaganda and censorship in Nazi Germany and the German Democratic Republic. Through detailed analysis and compelling examples, the book explores how these regimes manipulated information to control public opinion and maintain power. It offers valuable insights into the dangers of unchecked propaganda and the importance of a free and independent press.

Who should read Bending Spines?

  • Individuals interested in the history and mechanics of propaganda

  • Students and scholars studying totalitarian regimes and their communication strategies

  • Readers seeking to understand how propaganda can influence and manipulate public opinion


4

What's Brave New World Revisited about?

Brave New World Revisited is a thought-provoking non-fiction book by Aldous Huxley. In this compelling work, Huxley revisits the dystopian world he created in his classic novel Brave New World and examines how many of his predictions about the future have come to pass. He delves into topics such as overpopulation, propaganda, and the use of technology, offering insightful commentary on the state of the world and the potential consequences of unchecked scientific and technological advancement.

Who should read Brave New World Revisited?

  • Readers who are curious about the potential consequences of technological and social advancements

  • Individuals who enjoy thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating literature

  • Those who want to critically analyze and reflect on the current state of society and its future trajectory


5
Propaganda Books: How Propaganda Works by Jason Stanley

How Propaganda Works

Jason Stanley

What's How Propaganda Works about?

How Propaganda Works by Jason Stanley explores the tactics and strategies used to manipulate public opinion and shape political discourse. Drawing on historical and contemporary examples, the book reveals how propaganda can distort our understanding of reality and undermine democratic societies. It also offers insights into how we can recognize and resist the influence of propaganda in our daily lives.

Who should read How Propaganda Works?

  • Individuals who want to understand how language and rhetoric can be used to manipulate and control public opinion

  • Readers interested in the intersection of politics, psychology, and communication

  • Citizens who are concerned about the spread of misinformation and propaganda in the digital age


6
Propaganda Books: Media Control by Noam Chomsky

Media Control

Noam Chomsky

What's Media Control about?

Media Control by Noam Chomsky explores the ways in which mass media is used to shape public opinion and manipulate information. Chomsky argues that the concentration of media ownership and the influence of powerful elites result in a narrow range of perspectives being presented to the public. He also discusses the role of advertising and public relations in shaping the content and priorities of the media. Ultimately, the book raises important questions about the potential consequences of media control for democracy and informed decision-making.

Who should read Media Control?

  • Readers who are interested in understanding the manipulation of media and its impact on society

  • Individuals who want to critically analyze the information they consume and the agendas behind it

  • Those who seek to broaden their perspective on the role of media in shaping public opinion


What's Monumental Myths of the Modern Medical Mafia and Mainstream Media and the Multitude of Lying Liars That Manufactured Them about?

Monumental Myths of the Modern Medical Mafia and Mainstream Media and the Multitude of Lying Liars That Manufactured Them by Ty M. Bollinger delves into the controversial world of modern medicine and media. Bollinger challenges popular beliefs and exposes what he sees as the hidden truths behind the healthcare industry and media narratives. Through extensive research and compelling arguments, the book aims to open readers' eyes to a different perspective on health and information dissemination.

Who should read Monumental Myths of the Modern Medical Mafia and Mainstream Media and the Multitude of Lying Liars That Manufactured Them?

  • Individuals who are skeptical of mainstream medical and media narratives

  • People who want to gain a deeper understanding of the potential manipulation and misinformation in the healthcare and news industries

  • Readers who are open-minded and curious about alternative perspectives on health and current events


8
Propaganda Books: Necessary Illusions by Noam Chomsky

Necessary Illusions

Noam Chomsky

What's Necessary Illusions about?

Necessary Illusions by Noam Chomsky challenges the idea that the media is an independent and objective institution. Chomsky argues that the media serves the interests of powerful elites and creates illusions that are necessary for maintaining the existing social, economic, and political order. Through thought-provoking analysis, the book sheds light on the hidden mechanisms behind media manipulation and encourages readers to question the information they receive.

Who should read Necessary Illusions?

  • Individuals who are interested in understanding the role of media in shaping public opinion

  • Readers who want to critically analyze the information they consume and the narratives presented to them

  • People who are curious about the mechanisms of propaganda and manipulation in modern society


9
Propaganda Books: Obama's Deadliest Cover-Up by Don Blankenship

What's Obama's Deadliest Cover-Up about?

Obama's Deadliest Cover-Up by Don Blankenship delves into the controversial theory that the Obama administration concealed vital information about the 2010 Upper Big Branch mine explosion. Blankenship, a former coal executive, presents his case and argues that the government prioritized politics over the truth, ultimately resulting in the deaths of 29 miners. This thought-provoking book challenges the official narrative and raises important questions about accountability and transparency.

Who should read Obama's Deadliest Cover-Up?

  • Readers who are interested in uncovering government corruption and cover-ups

  • Those who want to understand the complexities of the coal mining industry and its impact on workers

  • Individuals who appreciate firsthand accounts and insider perspectives on controversial events


10
Propaganda Books: Science of Coercion by Christopher Simpson

Science of Coercion

Christopher Simpson

What's Science of Coercion about?

Science of Coercion by Christopher Simpson delves into the disturbing world of psychological warfare and propaganda. It uncovers the hidden history of how governments and intelligence agencies have used scientific research to manipulate public opinion and control behavior. Drawing on declassified documents and interviews, the book reveals the dark side of communication studies and its impact on society.

Who should read Science of Coercion?

  • Individuals interested in understanding the history and impact of propaganda and psychological warfare

  • Researchers and academics in the fields of communication, media studies, and political science

  • Journalists and media professionals seeking to critically analyze the influence of government agencies on public perception


11
Propaganda Books: The Invention of Russia by Arkady Ostrovsky

The Invention of Russia

Arkady Ostrovsky

What's The Invention of Russia about?

The Invention of Russia by Arkady Ostrovsky delves into the complex history of Russia and its transformation from the collapse of the Soviet Union to the present day. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the book explores the role of propaganda, media manipulation, and political power in shaping the country's identity and international relations. It offers valuable insights into the forces that have shaped modern Russia and its impact on the global stage.

Who should read The Invention of Russia?

  • Readers interested in understanding the historical and cultural factors that have shaped modern Russia

  • Individuals seeking insights into the political strategies and tactics employed by Vladimir Putin

  • Those curious about the impact of media manipulation and propaganda on public opinion


12
Propaganda Books: The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck

The Moon Is Down

John Steinbeck

What's The Moon Is Down about?

The Moon Is Down by John Steinbeck is a powerful novel that explores the effects of war and occupation on a small town. Set in a fictional European country during World War II, the story follows the townspeople as they resist and adapt to the presence of enemy soldiers. Steinbeck masterfully portrays the complexities of human nature and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Who should read The Moon Is Down?

  • Readers who are interested in exploring the psychological and emotional impact of war

  • Individuals who appreciate thought-provoking and introspective literature

  • Those who enjoy John Steinbeck's writing style and want to delve into one of his lesser-known works


13
Propaganda Books: The Smear by Sharyl Attkisson

The Smear

Sharyl Attkisson

What's The Smear about?

The Smear by Sharyl Attkisson delves into the world of media manipulation and political spin. Through in-depth research and interviews, Attkisson uncovers the tactics used to shape public opinion and discredit individuals or organizations. The book sheds light on the dangers of misinformation and the impact it has on our society.

Who should read The Smear?

  • Readers who are interested in understanding the tactics and impact of media manipulation

  • Individuals who want to become more discerning consumers of news and information

  • Those who are curious about the behind-the-scenes workings of political smear campaigns


What's Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible about?

Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible by Peter Pomerantsev explores the surreal world of contemporary Russia. Through a series of captivating stories and firsthand experiences, the book delves into the country's media manipulation, political propaganda, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction. It offers a thought-provoking examination of power, reality, and the consequences of living in a society where anything seems possible.

Who should read Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible?

  • Readers who are curious about the intersection of media, politics, and truth

  • Those interested in understanding the complexities of modern Russia and its influence on the world

  • Individuals who enjoy thought-provoking narratives that challenge their perceptions


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 FAQs 

What's the best Propaganda book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard Public Opinion as the ultimate read on Propaganda.

What are the Top 10 Propaganda books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • Public Opinion by Walter Lippmann
  • American Pravda by James O'Keefe
  • Bending Spines by Randall L. Bytwerk
  • Brave New World Revisited by Aldous Huxley
  • How Propaganda Works by Jason Stanley
  • Media Control by Noam Chomsky
  • Monumental Myths of the Modern Medical Mafia and Mainstream Media and the Multitude of Lying Liars That Manufactured Them by Ty M. Bollinger
  • Necessary Illusions by Noam Chomsky
  • Obama's Deadliest Cover-Up by Don Blankenship
  • Science of Coercion by Christopher Simpson

Who are the top Propaganda book authors?

When it comes to Propaganda, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Walter Lippmann
  • James O'Keefe
  • Randall L. Bytwerk
  • Aldous Huxley
  • Jason Stanley