What Are Some Examples of Testimonial Propaganda?
An advertisement that includes a celebrity endorsement, such as a popular actress appearing in a makeup ad, is one type of testimonial propaganda. Testimonial propaganda takes advantage of the goodwill and trust the public tends to feel toward famous people.
Celebrities such as Britney Spears, Michael Jackson and Beyonce have all appeared in ads for Pepsi Cola. By appearing in these ads, these celebrities are implying that they prefer and consume Pepsi products, adding to the product’s appeal. This is a form of testimonial propaganda. Testimonial propaganda can also take place in politics. Political endorsements have become an important part of the democratic process in America with politicians making a statement by publicly declaring support for a certain candidate. For example, when Colin Powell, a Republican, endorsed Democrat Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential run, Powell was making a statement not only about who he thought should win the presidential election but also about the state of his party.
