Meaning: The quote "The oblique paradox of propaganda is that the lie in the throat becomes, by repetition, the truth in the heart" speaks to the complex and often insidious nature of propaganda. Attributed to John Grierson, a pioneering Scottish documentary film maker and director, the quote highlights the deceptive power of propaganda in shaping public opinion and belief.

Propaganda is a form of communication that is used to influence and manipulate people's thoughts, beliefs, and actions. It can take various forms, including misleading or false information, biased news, or persuasive messaging. The quote suggests that propaganda operates through a paradoxical mechanism, wherein a falsehood, when repeated consistently and convincingly, can eventually be internalized as truth by the individuals exposed to it.

The "oblique paradox" described in the quote captures the subtle and indirect nature of propaganda. It operates in a manner that is not always overt or explicit, but rather through subtle and often misleading means. The use of the term "oblique" suggests a slant or indirect approach, highlighting the deceptive and manipulative nature of propaganda as it works its way into the consciousness of the audience.

The quote also emphasizes the transformative power of repetition in the context of propaganda. By reiterating a falsehood or distorted information, propagandists aim to embed it in the collective psyche of the audience, gradually shaping their perceptions and beliefs. The transition from "the lie in the throat" to "the truth in the heart" underscores the insidious process through which falsehoods can become ingrained as accepted truths through the relentless repetition and reinforcement of propaganda.

John Grierson, as the director credited with this quote, was a significant figure in the realm of documentary filmmaking and a key proponent of the documentary movement. Grierson's work often focused on social and political issues, and he was keenly aware of the power of media in shaping public opinion. His quote reflects a critical perspective on the role of media and propaganda in influencing societal beliefs and attitudes.

In contemporary society, the quote remains relevant in the context of the pervasive presence of propaganda in various forms of media, including digital platforms, television, and print media. The rise of social media has further amplified the dissemination of propaganda, with misinformation and deceptive narratives spreading rapidly and widely.

The quote serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential dangers of unchecked propaganda and the need for critical media literacy. It underscores the importance of questioning information, verifying sources, and critically analyzing the messages conveyed through various media channels. By understanding the oblique paradox of propaganda, individuals can become more vigilant and discerning consumers of information, thereby mitigating the impact of manipulative and deceitful messaging.

In conclusion, John Grierson's quote encapsulates the deceptive and transformative nature of propaganda, highlighting its ability to distort truth through repetition and oblique persuasion. It serves as a poignant reflection on the enduring influence of propaganda in shaping public consciousness and underscores the imperative of critical media literacy in navigating the contemporary media landscape.