While reading “Age of Propaganda”, I came across the subject of fear. It talks about how to generate fear on a group or individuals.
These are some well-known trick marketers, politicians and preachers have been using.
A fear appeal is most effective when:
- It scares the hell out of people
- It offers a specific recommendation for overcoming the fear-arousing threat
- The recommended action is perceived as effective for reducing the threat.
- The message recipient believes that he or she can perform the recommended actions.
This reminds of anti-tobacco and use condom for safe sex campaign.