Watching the Box

Watching the Box, a photo by Epiclectic on Flickr.

AN ESSAY ABOUT PROPAGANDA, ILLUSTRATIONS AND A FREE AMERICA

Isn't it odd how society can change images through education. For example, when attending elementary school, many of our books illustrated men smoking pipes. They were usually the kind, grandfatherly type and often pictured with their grandchildren or children. Now, 60 years later,the non-smoking advocates in government positions have decided that smokers are deviant beings who are determined to foul the environment, thus making them a negative part of our populace. Now, one never sees reality in textbooks or advertisements illustrating pipe-smoking men.

As a pipe smoker since I was 12, I have seen this movement evolve. Now, when enjoying a pipe at a park with my grandchildren, other children passing by will stare at me as though I were a troll; some point and comment to their guardians. I am, in their eyes, a criminal because I am smoking. This is an example of how education can use propaganda to ruin the character of members of the population.

I am waiting to see a textbook illustrating citizens shooting up with needles in public parks. Yes, I am waiting for illustrations of how gangsters and thugs go about intimidating those in Central Park or on the streets. I am waiting for illustrations of events where beer is being served to create negative attitudes about Americans enjoying a cold beer.

This is how the socialists sitting in their cubicles will demonize those celebrating 4th of July celebrations, Christian holidays and free enterprise. Yes, illustrations can definitely effect the ideas of young children. It all depends on who is a socialist and who is one who wants this wonderful nation of democracy and free enterprise to fail.

By Robert L. Huffstutter
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Thanks to Steve, Epicletic
Watching the Box by Epiclectic