propagandist

A propagandist is a person who designs, produces, or disseminates propaganda with the aim of influencing the opinions, beliefs, or actions of a target audience. Propaganda consists of information, ideas, or rumors spread deliberately to shape perception or behavior in support of a cause, movement, or institution. The term is often associated with political contexts, though it also appears in advertising and public relations.

The word derives from propagate, with the -ist suffix denoting a practitioner. Historically, propaganda has been used in wartime and political campaigns to mobilize populations, legitimize regimes, or undermine opponents. Its methods range from appeals to emotion and authority to strategic omission and repetition.

Propagandists craft messages, select supporting data, and choose channels such as posters, radio, television, websites, and social media. They may tailor content to specific audiences, use simplifying slogans, demonize opponents, create false equivalences, or fabricate narratives. Propaganda can be produced by governments, political parties, advocacy groups, corporations, or individual actors.

With the rise of digital media, propagandists can reach large audiences quickly through online and automated means, including disinformation campaigns and coordinated inauthentic behavior. Distinctions are drawn between propaganda and broader persuasion or education, though the line is often debated. Critical media literacy and transparent sourcing are cited as defenses against manipulative messaging.