by Esme Addison

I stopped watching the main stream media several years ago, but have only begun using X as my source of what’s happening in the world in real time. And while X is a good source of news with its mix of citizen journalism, truth tellers and average man on the street videos, there is also an overwhelming amount of information.

With floods of information comes propaganda. Media manipulation.

The main stream media knows they’re quickly becoming irrelevant, and so those in power that want to get their messages out are using social media. Propaganda. Fake news disguised as shakily taken videos.

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Some of this content is easily identified as fake, while others that target visceral primeval emotions like hate and rage are not so easy to spot through the blinding red rage of anger. So, I thought now would be a good time to explore the subject of media manipulation by governments because I think it’s happening right now. And its really important that we as citizens understand what is happening around us.

Throughout history, governments and powerful entities have used manipulated images, videos, and narratives to influence public opinion, incite civil unrest, and even spark wars. Understanding these tactics is crucial, especially in today’s digital age, where information spreads faster than ever before. This article explores historical and modern examples of how governments have faked reality to achieve their goals and examines the impact of these manipulations on society.

Understanding Media Manipulation

Media manipulation involves the deliberate alteration or fabrication of information to deceive or influence an audience. Governments and other entities often employ these tactics to create false realities that serve their interests. Techniques include staged events, doctored photos, selective editing, and spreading disinformation through trusted channels. These manipulations can have a profound impact on public perception. By presenting a skewed version of reality, governments can shape opinions, create enemies, and fuel conflicts, often leading to devastating consequences for society.

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Case Study: The Rwandan Genocide (1994)

One of the most harrowing examples of media manipulation leading to mass violence is the Rwandan Genocide. In 1994, extremist Hutu leaders used radio broadcasts and newspapers to spread hate speech and dehumanize the Tutsi minority. Radio stations like Radio Télévision Libre des Mille Collines (RTLM) played a central role in inciting violence by labeling Tutsis as “cockroaches” and calling for their extermination. This relentless barrage of propaganda fueled the genocide, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. The manipulation of media in Rwanda shows how dangerous and effective propaganda can be in inciting hatred and violence on a massive scale.

Case Study: The Bosnian War (1992-1995)

The Bosnian War, another tragic conflict fueled by media manipulation, saw Serbian media outlets broadcasting false reports and manipulated images to demonize Bosniak communities. Propaganda was used to stoke ethnic hatred and justify violence, leading to atrocities such as the Srebrenica massacre, where over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were killed. Serbian leaders exploited the media to create a narrative of victimization and threat, which served as a pretext for ethnic cleansing. This case illustrates the power of manipulated media in deepening divisions and escalating conflicts, with long-lasting effects on the region.

Modern Instances of Government Manipulation of Media

Case Study: The Iraq War (2003)

In the lead-up to the Iraq War, the U.S. government used manipulated or selective imagery, such as satellite images, to support the claim that Iraq possessed Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs). These images were presented as definitive proof to justify the invasion, despite the lack of concrete evidence. When it was later revealed that Iraq did not have WMDs, public trust in both the government and the media suffered a significant blow. This case underscores how manipulated media can be used to justify military actions and the long-term consequences of such deception on public trust.

Case Study: Russian Disinformation in Ukraine

In more recent years, Russia has been accused of using manipulated videos and images to create a pretext for its actions in Ukraine, particularly during the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The use of “deepfake” technology and other sophisticated methods of disinformation has become a powerful tool in modern conflicts, allowing governments to spread misinformation and incite unrest. These tactics have made it increasingly difficult for the public to discern truth from fiction, highlighting the evolving nature of media manipulation in the digital age.

Subversive Elements in the U.S. Using Manipulated Media

Case Study: COINTELPRO (1956-1971)

The FBI’s Counter Intelligence Program, known as COINTELPRO, is a notorious example of how government agencies can use media manipulation to discredit and destabilize organizations and individuals. Through forged documents, manipulated media, and other covert tactics, the FBI sought to undermine civil rights organizations and activists, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. These disinformation campaigns had a chilling effect on civil rights movements and eroded public trust in the government. The legacy of COINTELPRO continues to influence perceptions of government surveillance and the potential for abuse of power.

Case Study: Operation Northwoods (1962)

Operation Northwoods was a proposed U.S. government plan that involved using false flag operations, including faked attacks, to justify military action against Cuba. Although the plan was never executed, its existence highlights the potential for media manipulation by government entities to serve geopolitical goals. The fact that such plans were considered at the highest levels of government is a stark reminder of the lengths to which some are willing to go to manipulate public perception and achieve their objectives.

Lessons for Today

In today’s world, the tools and techniques for media manipulation have become more sophisticated, with the rise of social media, deepfakes, and other digital technologies. It is more important than ever for individuals to be vigilant and critical of the information they consume. Recognizing manipulated content requires a combination of media literacy, critical thinking, and a healthy skepticism of sources. By staying informed and questioning narratives, the public can help prevent the spread of misinformation and protect against the dangers of media manipulation.

The use of manipulated media to incite unrest and conflict is a tactic as old as civilization itself. From the Rwandan Genocide to modern-day disinformation campaigns, the impact of these manipulations has been profound and often tragic. Understanding these tactics and their historical context is essential for navigating today’s complex media landscape and ensuring that history does not repeat itself.

Whether you’re watching tv or on social media, be aware of what you’re watching.

Be discerning.

Question the content. Does it make sense? Does it seem reasonable? Are there any red flags in the content that you dismiss because of anger? Where did the content come from and who is reposting it. Do they have ulterior motives? Is it a source you trust? Does your response take you to a negative place? If so, who benefits from that response? Is it you?

Or your enemy?