Library:Crystallizing Public Opinion
| Crystallizing Public Opinion | |
|---|---|
| Author | Edward L. Bernays |
| First published | 1923 |
| ISBN | 978-0-486-84419-0 unverified |
| Role | Primary source |
| Domains | Business, Finance & Scams Technology & Media |
| Tactics | Propaganda Technique Manipulation |
Crystallizing Public Opinion is a 1923 book by Edward L. Bernays.
Summary
Edward Bernays, a nephew of Sigmund Freud and a veteran of the US government's First World War propaganda agency, the Committee on Public Information, wrote this book in 1923. It is generally considered the first book on public relations as a profession.
The "counsel on public relations"
Bernays introduced the idea of a professional adviser who shapes how the public perceives a company, product, cause or person. He argued that public opinion could be understood and influenced through psychology, group leaders and carefully staged events.
From war to commerce
Bernays applied wartime propaganda methods to business and politics, and openly described the shaping of opinion as a necessary function of democracy. His later book Propaganda (1928) developed these ideas further.
Relevance to Bullshitopedia
A primary source from the founder of modern public relations. Read alongside his Propaganda and critics such as Toxic Sludge Is Good for You!, it shows how propaganda techniques moved into everyday commerce.
Related entries
- Library:Propaganda
- Library:Toxic Sludge Is Good for You!
- Subliminal ads made moviegoers buy more popcorn and Coca-Cola