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Comment by dbsmith83 | Hacker News Reader

> Turns out, well-written articles get input from all interested parties and include any opposition research so that readers can look at the information presented and decide what the report means.

You do realize this is an opinion piece, and not a news article, right?

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I realize that it is propaganda, regardless of the chosen packaging. Do you?

Of course, and what is the issue with that? Propaganda has a vague definition, and basically any published opinion piece trying to persuade could be technically considered propaganda. At least it is labeled as an opinion piece, so what is the point about crying "It's propaganda!"? So what?

I have a problem with propaganda disguised as a news article, but that is not what is going on here.

So [what]... there is value in reminding people of that, because everyone has confirmation biases and while some opinion pieces are thoughtful, critical, and comprehensive, other are just propaganda.

Identifying it is a matter of contextualization. You don't have to employ it, if you don't want to. But if it gives even one person pause, I'm satisfied with that.

Well thanks for your concern, but I would imagine many people here would consider your reminder as being quite patronizing

And what do you expect I consider your hand-wringing over my concern?

If it gives you pause, I'm satisfied with that.

Ah yes. Actively engaging by continuing to respond. The telltale signs of "pause".

Your whining is amusing, though! So I hope that can bring you as much satisfaction as it is bringing me, at the moment.

propaganda

prŏp″ə-găn′də

noun

1. The systematic propagation of a doctrine or cause or of information reflecting the views and interests of those advocating such a doctrine or cause.

2. Material disseminated by the advocates or opponents of a doctrine or cause.

Nothing in the definition about how "thoughtful" it is

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