Narrative Dictionary: 12 Propaganda Techniques You Need to Know

Ask: “What specific fact is behind this threat? Is there a verifiable source?” If the answer is only emotion, it’s manipulation.

If a person or country is described only with labels and no facts — you’re looking at demonization, not information.

Ask: “Who is this expert? Can their claims be verified from another source?” A real expert does not fear questions.

Ask: “What does the other side say? Are there facts that contradict this conclusion?” One-sidedness signals manipulation.

Ask: “Stability for whom? Who benefits from this particular order?” Real stability includes rights, not just silence.

Ask: “Does this answer my question or change the subject?” Problems elsewhere don’t cancel problems at home.

Replace emotional words with neutral ones. If the meaning disappears — there was no meaning. Only emotion.

Ask: “Who else describes these events? Are there alternative interpretations?” History with only one version is not history — it’s ideology.

Ask: “What depends on us? What decisions did our side make?” If others are always to blame — you’re being distracted.

Ask: “Is this really the same thing? Are scale, context and consequences comparable?” Usually — no.

Ask: “Are all national successes one person’s doing? What happens if you criticise them?” A healthy system survives criticism.

Check: the same thesis, same words, across different channels on the same day? That’s not coincidence — it’s coordination.