This week on Sunday Letters I’m discussing the subject of propaganda, of public relations. I’m looking at the practice undertaken by corporations and governments the world over to engineer the consent of the masses towards their aims. Download the 1928 book titled; Propaganda, by the controversial figure, Edward L. Bernays.
Society & Culture
Welcome to the article category society and culture. Read articles and essays on the the role of work in society and culture over the centuries
Challenging Authority: The Creative Imperative
Challenging authority at all levels is vital in our building of a healthy society. And for the creative, there is hardly a greater imperative. In systems of education, national and local government, in work environments, sports clubs and organisations. Wherever there are those who would assume authority over others there must be those who are willing to challenge them no matter what.
The New Religion & The Righteous Menace
There’s a new religion taking hold. In fact, there are many of them, lurking in the minds of righteous and well-meaning people. In my country, Ireland, the unobstructed march of the righteous, initially well-meaning in their pursuits, ultimately brought about the exact opposite to that which they preached. The Catholic church and their unconscious disciples held high the moral benchmark for society. So high, in fact, none of us could reach it.
The Mere Exposure Effect: Do We Have Control Over Our Descisions?
Understanding the Mere-Exposure Effect Psychological research has shown that forces beyond the reach of the conscious mind shape how we perceive ourselves and others, how we react to events, and, generally, how we perceive the world. One such phenomenon is The Mere Exposure Effect Zajonc, R. B. (1968). Attitudinal effects of mere exposure. Journal of personality […]
The Inadequacy Of The Words
I was sitting in bed one night, my back against the tall solid wood headboard when suddenly it occurred to me the complete inadequacy of the words I had just spoken. My wife and I were discussing something trivial, I can’t remember what it was now, it doesn’t really matter anyway. I was in no doubt that right there, the words we just uttered were pointless, even primitive.
Is It Worth The Sacrifice?
Having a family is a challenge right? The Joy of being a parent can’t be overstated I feel, but it can be challenging. We leave behind the freedom of the single life to have a family but it’s worth the sacrifice. I wonder though in that, is it really a sacrifice at all.
Parent Child Relationship: What Is Its True Purpose?
It can be difficult to write an article on the parent child relationship without coming across as nauseously righteous. If I do then I didn’t do a good job. So the best way for me to remain as sincere and honourable an observer as possible is to offer a personal story. So here you go…