Lecture Notes: Propaganda and Communism in Democratic Societies

Importance of Propaganda

• Propaganda is crucial in democratic societies for shaping perceptions.
• Physical appearance does not determine one's beliefs; actions and affiliations do.

Identifying Communists

• Open declaration as a communist is a clear indicator.
• Consistent reading and advocating of communist literature suggests alignment with communism.
• Supporting organizations that reflect or are labeled as communist by the Department of Justice can indicate communist ties.
• Defending communist nations while attacking U.S. policies can be a sign of communist sympathies.
• A person's consistent behavior over time can reveal communist affiliation.
• Some communists work silently, without showing their true intentions.

Historical Context

• By the early 1950s, Communist Party membership had decreased significantly.
• Despite this, Cold War propaganda exaggerated the threat of communism.
• Society was mobilized to combat what was seen as a pervasive evil.

Anti-Communist Sentiments

• Anti-communist demonstrations, such as marches on New York's Fifth Avenue, showcased widespread opposition to communism.
• Events like Mayday brought waves of anti-communist sentiment.

Dramatic Illustration

• A narrative depicts a family confrontation about communism.
  • A daughter volunteers for farm work, influenced by the Young Communist League.
  • The daughter seeks to "free" herself from family influence, indicating the power of communist persuasion.
  • The scene illustrates the tension between personal beliefs and family loyalties.

Reflection

• The narrative underscores the fear and suspicion surrounding communism during the Cold War era.
• It highlights the influence of propaganda in shaping societal attitudes and responses.
• The dramatic elements serve to intensify the perceived threat and emotional response to communism.

This lecture provides insight into the strategies of identifying and responding to communism within democratic societies, and the role of propaganda in amplifying perceived threats.