Introduction
Consent manufacture refers to the covert mechanisms through which powerful elites shape and control public opinion, often influencing decisions made on political, social, or economic issues. This theory argues that individual will is manipulated on a mass scale, creating the illusion of free choice where the actual decisions are predetermined.
Origins
The concept of consent manufacture was popularized by Edward Bernays, the father of modern propaganda, who believed that manipulating public opinion was essential to democratic governance. His work is said to have laid the groundwork for modern advertising and media manipulation.
Theories and Evidence
- Media Influence: Television, news outlets, and social media are major players in shaping opinions, often subtly guiding the public to support policies or ideologies that benefit the elite.
- Manufactured Consent: Bernays’ work is seen as evidence that consent can be shaped through psychological techniques, often for profit or political gain.
- Political Campaigns: Political strategies, including PR campaigns, are designed to create consensus, often using manipulative tactics to engineer outcomes.
Critical Analysis
While many view consent manufacture as a necessary evil in complex societies, others argue that it is a form of coercion, stripping individuals of their autonomy and free will.