Free Thought and Official Propaganda

Russell discusses the ways in which institutions and governments influence public opinion and behavior through propaganda. Instead of informing and educating the public, he contends that propaganda is frequently used to fortify a sense of community and to stifle dissent. This may result in a circumstance where people are unable or unwilling to challenge the status quo, which could be harmful to society's advancement. Overall, ‘Free Thought and Official Propaganda’ is an ardent defense of free thought and a strong critique of the use of propaganda in society. In the modern world, where information slanting and propaganda are still major concerns, it is still a pertinent and thought-provoking essay.

"Education should have two objects: first, to give definite knowledge—reading and writing, languages and mathematics, and so on; secondly, to create those mental habits which will enable people to acquire knowledge and form sound judgments for themselves."
—Bertrand Russell (Free Thought and Official Propaganda)