by – L. Richardson

In the shadows of our modern world, a sinister force has been quietly gaining strength. The dark truth of modern psyops is coming to light, unmasking the power-hungry elite who seek to control and manipulate the masses. These psychological operations, far from being a new phenomenon, have evolved into a sophisticated arsenal of tactics designed to divide society through fear and suppress the voices of those who dare to speak out [22]. As the battle for freedom versus totalitarian control intensifies, it’s crucial to understand these manipulative practices’ insidious nature and remain alert and vigilant. The insidious nature of these tactics should alarm us and motivate us to take action to resist and reclaim our independence from such manipulation.

This exploration delves into the historical context of psyops, revealing how past techniques have shaped current strategies. Understanding this historical context is crucial, as it empowers us to recognize and resist these manipulative tactics. By examining recent attacks on humanity, including lockdown deceptions and vaccine mandate controversies, we aim to unveil the hidden agenda behind these actions. The article also identifies key actors orchestrating these schemes. It assesses their impact on society, ultimately calling for action to reclaim independence from manipulation and defend our fundamental liberties.

Historical Context of Psyops

The desire for power and control over others is an age-old phenomenon deeply rooted in human history. Throughout the ages, those in positions of influence have employed sophisticated tactics to manipulate public opinion, shape beliefs, and modify behavior to serve their interests rather than the greater good. 1

Ancient Desire for Power:

The propaganda campaigns of totalitarian regimes like Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union stand as chilling examples of psychological manipulation on a massive scale. Joseph Goebbels’ strategic use of fear, scapegoating, and the “big lie” technique exemplifies how those in power have exploited fear and misinformation to consolidate control. 1 Religious institutions, too, have a long history of exploiting guilt, fear of damnation, and the promise of salvation to maintain control over the masses, as seen in the Catholic Church’s practices like selling indulgences and the Inquisition. 1

Even industries like the tobacco sector have engaged in deceptive marketing campaigns, sowing doubt about the health risks of smoking despite their own research confirming the dangers, all to sustain profits at the expense of public health. These historical instances underscore the enduring desire for power and the lengths some will go to achieve it. This should make us wary and cautious, constantly questioning the narratives pushed by those in power.

Modern Examples:

Debbie Lerman’s argument on lockdowns as counter-terrorism.

In the recent international crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, that began in the spring of 2020, Debbie Lerman has revealed that the lockdowns imposed in the United States were not solely about health concerns but rather part of a counter-terrorism strategy. This revelation exposes how governments can exploit fear and use extreme measures under the guise of public safety to control populations.

Aaron Kheriaty’s insights on the Security State.

Aaron Kheriaty has warned about the relentless encroachment of the Security State, highlighting how the expansion of surveillance and control mechanisms can erode individual freedoms under the pretext of security. 2 His insights shed light on the alarming trend of governments leveraging fear and security concerns to justify overreaching policies that infringe on civil liberties.

Jeffrey Tucker’s revelation on scientific consensus leading to eugenics.

Perhaps most chillingly, Jeffrey Tucker has exposed the eugenics agenda behind mandatory vaccinations, a controversial theory that suggests selective breeding to improve the genetic quality of the human population, revealing how a misguided scientific consensus, where a majority of scientists or experts agree on a particular issue, can lead to horrific policies. His revelations are a stark reminder of the dangers of blindly accepting narratives pushed by those in power, even when cloaked in the guise of science and expertise.

These modern examples demonstrate that psychological manipulation tactics have not disappeared; they have evolved and become more insidious. The playbook may have changed, but the goal remains: to dominate and control the masses through fear, deception, and the suppression of dissenting voices. 1

The Playbook of Manipulation

The Century of the Self:

The seminal documentary “The Century of the Self” by Adam Curtis delves into the origins of psychological manipulation and its application in shaping public opinion. Sigmund Freud’s nephew, Edward Bernays, pioneered the field of public relations, drawing upon his uncle’s theories of the unconscious to influence consumer behavior. 3 Bernays recognized that advertising could transcend rational choice and connect directly with people’s feelings and desires. 3

Bernays believed that the masses needed “guidance from above” 3 and that the public’s unconscious desires rendered them susceptible to manipulation. He argued that an “invisible government” of experts could “pull the wires which control the public mind.” 4 This “engineering of consent” 5 aimed to bypass conscious reasoning and appeal to suppressed emotions and hidden desires, rendering people malleable to the agendas of those in power. 4

Bernays’ Tactics:

The “Torches of Freedom” campaign.

One of Bernays’ most famous campaigns exemplified his tactics. In 1929, he orchestrated the “Torches of Freedom” campaign for the American Tobacco Company, seeking to overcome societal taboos against women smoking in public. 5 Bernays staged a demonstration at the Easter Sunday parade, having fashionable young women flaunt their “torches of freedom” – cigarettes – as symbols of women’s liberation and equality. 6 By exploiting aspirations for freedom and associating smoking with the women’s rights movement, Bernays significantly increased cigarette sales to women. 6

Manipulation of public opinion through media and PR.

Bernays recognized the power of media and public relations in shaping public opinion. He organized publicity stunts, such as arranging for President Calvin Coolidge to appear at “pancake breakfasts” and White House concerts, countering his stiff image. 7 Bernays also launched campaigns to scare people into thinking disposable cups were more sanitary, founding the “Committee for the Study and Promotion of the Sanitary Dispensing of Food and Drink [23].” 7

Engineering of Consent.

Bernays’ concept of the “engineering of consent” 5 involved systematically manipulating public opinion through psychological techniques. He believed that by understanding the unconscious desires of the masses, one could engineer their consent and control their behavior without their awareness. 6 This approach relied on appealing to emotions rather than reason, shaping beliefs and actions through subtle psychological manipulation. 4

Modern Psyops Tactics

Government and Corporate Psyops:

Governments and corporations have long employed psychological operations (psyops) to manipulate public opinion, shape beliefs, and modify behavior to serve their interests. 8 These tactics aim to influence emotions, attitudes, and reasoning, ultimately dictating actions favorable to their objectives. 9 Psyops utilize a combination of non-coercive devices to gain influence over target groups without resorting to force. 8

The process involves defining the target audience, identifying methods or agents to influence their perception of reality, and disseminating the message through selected channels. 8 Credibility is crucial; if the audience detects contradictions or falsehoods, the operation’s credibility is lost, potentially undermining future efforts. 8 Hence, the cardinal motto for psyops is “Truth is the best PSYOP.” 8

Psyops act as a force multiplier, enhancing the effect of military or political operations by favorably influencing the opponent’s attitude, thereby diminishing their physical resistance. 8 Governments and corporations have employed various psyops tactics, including disinformation campaigns, front groups, and exploiting fear and emotions to control narratives and public discourse. 8

Historical Examples Revisited:

Smoking campaigns and medical establishment’s complicity.

The tobacco industry’s deceptive marketing campaigns exemplify the use of psyops to sustain profits at the expense of public health. Despite their own research confirming the dangers of smoking, companies sowed doubt about the health risks through strategic messaging and manipulation of public opinion. 1

Guatemala’s color revolution was orchestrated by Bernays.

Edward Bernays, the founder of public relations, orchestrated campaigns that exploited emotions and aspirations to shape public perception. His “Torches of Freedom” campaign for the American Tobacco Company associated smoking with women’s liberation, significantly increasing cigarette sales to women. 3 5 6 Bernays also influenced the overthrow of Guatemala’s democratically elected government in 1954, orchestrating a “color revolution” on behalf of the United Fruit Company. 10

Influence on American politics and the Nazi regime.

Bernays’ concept of the “engineering of consent” involved systematically manipulating public opinion through psychological techniques, appealing to emotions rather than reason. 5 6 His methods influenced not only American politics but also the propaganda campaigns of the Nazi regime in Germany. 3 4

Joseph Goebbels, the Nazi Minister of Propaganda, employed strategic use of fear, scapegoating, and the “big lie” technique to consolidate control over the German population. 1 These historical examples underscore the enduring desire for power and the lengths to which some will go to achieve it through psychological manipulation.

Recent Attacks on Humanity

The Global Scale of Manipulation:

The psychological operations (PSYOP) employed by the United States military have expanded beyond the traditional battlefield, with a growing demand for these tactics in response to adversaries without engaging in armed combat. 11 However, recent revelations have raised concerns about these operations’ effectiveness and ethical implications. The Stanford Internet Observatory detailed over 150 instances of Facebook and Twitter removing accounts linked to U.S. military influence campaigns. 11

Moreover, the 2019 National Defense Authorization Act granted the Department of Defense the authority to engage in offensive psyops campaigns, including clandestine operations that align with the definition of covert activities, allowing the armed forces to carry out influence operations while denying American involvement. 11 This global expansion of psychological warfare tactics has raised alarms about potential overreach and lack of oversight.

Health and Safety as a Cover:

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for governments and organizations to implement various control measures under the guise of public health and safety. Mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policies have been widely adopted, leading to significant social and political resistance. 12 These policies have been criticized for potentially eroding public trust, exacerbating political polarization, and infringing on civil liberties and human rights. 12

In Greece, the government enforced a COVID-19 vaccination mandate for healthcare workers (HCWs) and medical nursing students, placing unvaccinated and non-recently convalescent HCWs on unpaid suspension. 13 This measure was justified as protecting public health, but it created a perception that unvaccinated HCWs endangered vulnerable patients, despite evidence suggesting that vaccination against COVID-19 is primarily an individual protective measure. 13

Fear and Division:

Fear of neighbors and surveillance.

The COVID-19 vaccination policies have normalized the stigma against unvaccinated individuals, with political leaders blaming them for the continuation of the pandemic, stress on hospital capacity, and the necessity of ongoing restrictive measures [24]. 12 This rhetoric has further polarized physically and psychologically, with limited discussion on specific strategies to increase vaccine uptake in communities where the benefits would be more significant. 12

Segregation of society into essential and non-essential.

The COVID-19 vaccine policies have effectively divided society into “essential” and “non-essential” groups, with the unvaccinated facing restrictions on access to work, education, public transport, and social life. 12 This segregation has been criticized as a violation of constitutional and human rights, with economic implications for the dependents of the unvaccinated. 12

Biological control through vaccination mandates.

The mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policies have raised concerns about the erosion of informed consent and the blurring of lines between voluntary and involuntary vaccination. 12 Critics argue that these policies represent a form of biological control with the potential to erode core principles of public health ethics and individual autonomy. 12

The Actors Behind the Manipulation

Identifying the Manipulators:

Conspiracy theories are a universal phenomenon among human beings, transcending modern and traditional societies alike. 9 The belief in conspiracy theories is a widespread societal phenomenon that has increasingly drawn the research attention of social scientists. 14 Historical sources and cross-cultural research provide evidence of widespread conspiracy theorizing among human populations across time and cultures. 15

This pervasive tendency to perceive conspiracies can be attributed to the fact that hostile coalitions (i.e., actual conspiracies) posed a meaningful selection pressure and a frequent cause of death among ancestral humans. 8 Consequently, perceived intergroup conflict or socioenvironmental cues associated with a likelihood of intergroup conflict predict increased belief in conspiracy theories. 16

Elements of Conspiracy:

While the existence of conspiracy theories is a universal human phenomenon, recent events have brought to light undeniable evidence of actual conspiracies orchestrated by powerful actors to control and suppress freedom. The revelations of truth-tellers like Debbie Lerman, Aaron Kheriaty, and Jeffrey Tucker have exposed the true motives behind actions taken under the guise of public health and safety.

Lerman’s insights into the counter-terrorism motives behind the U.S. lockdowns, Kheriaty’s warnings about the encroachment of the Security State, and Tucker’s revelations about the eugenics agenda behind forced vaccinations all point to a coordinated effort by shadowy figures and organizations to exploit fear, erode civil liberties and exert control over populations.

These actors, often operating in secrecy, have employed sophisticated psychological operations (psyops) to manipulate public opinion, shape beliefs, and modify behavior to serve their interests. From disinformation campaigns to the exploitation of fear and emotions, these tactics aim to control narratives, suppress dissenting voices, and ultimately dominate and subjugate the masses.

While the identities of these actors may remain shrouded in secrecy, the impact of their actions is undeniable. It is imperative to expose their activities, hold them accountable, and resist their manipulative tactics through peaceful but firm resistance, advocacy for personal and national sovereignty, and the defense of free speech and honest discourse.

The Impact on Society

Destruction of Community Bonds:

The COVID-19 vaccine policies have effectively divided society into “essential” and “non-essential” groups, with the unvaccinated facing restrictions on access to work, education, public transport, and social life. 12 This segregation has been criticized as a violation of constitutional and human rights, with economic implications for the dependents of the unvaccinated. 12 Moreover, it has undermined the fabric of local communities by prohibiting social gatherings, closing places of worship, and forcing businesses to shutter, further eroding the bonds that hold society together.

Censorship and Free Speech:

The First Amendment protects speech from government censorship [25]. Still, as private companies, social media platforms have their own First Amendment rights to moderate content on their websites without violating users’ First Amendment rights. 17 However, this power raises concerns about the concentration of rule-making powers in the hands of a few unelected individuals at profit-driven companies. 18

Content moderation algorithms inevitably require a systemic balancing of individual speech rights against other societal interests and values. 18 This has led to concerns about censorship and the suppression of honest voices as platforms grapple with the moral dilemma of upholding freedom of expression versus limiting the spread of misinformation. 18

Furthermore, mainstream media’s complicity in amplifying certain narratives while silencing others has contributed to the erosion of public trust and the polarization of society. 18 The suppression of honest discourse and the censorship of dissenting voices are key tactics employed in these psychological operations, undermining the principles of free speech and open dialog.

Call to Action

Recognize the Manipulation:

These psychological operations are not new phenomena; they are more dangerous now. The desire for power over others has always been a part of human history, and recent events continue this dark trend. Knowledge is power! 9 14 15 8 16 Understand that hostile coalitions (i.e., actual conspiracies) posed a meaningful selection pressure and a frequent cause of death among ancestral humans, leading to a pervasive tendency to perceive conspiracies across time and cultures. 8 Recognize the manipulation by understanding the historical context of psyops, from Edward Bernays’ “engineering of consent” 5 6 to the propaganda campaigns of totalitarian regimes like Nazi Germany. 1

Stay Informed and Question Narratives:

Stay updated with the latest theories and revelations from courageous truth-tellers like Debbie Lerman, Aaron Kheriaty, and Jeffrey Tucker. Their insights expose the motives behind lockdowns, the Security State, and forced vaccinations. 2 Don’t take anything at face value. Challenge the dominant narrative pushed by the media and the government. Ask yourself, who benefits from this information? Is it about health and safety, or is it about control? 12 13

Share the knowledge you gain with others. Use your voice to inform and educate those around you. The more people understand the manipulation, the stronger we become as a community. 12 Recognizing manipulative phrases is vital for healthy relationships and self-protection. 19 Developing awareness and the ability to recognize manipulative tactics can serve as a defense against emotional manipulation. 19

Resist Fear and Defend Free Speech:

Refuse to let fear control your actions. Whether it’s fear of a virus, fear of dissenters, or fear of surveillance, remember that fear is a tool used to prevent and divide us. 12 13 Stand up against censorship. Support platforms and individuals who promote free speech and honest discourse. The suppression of honest voices is a crucial tactic in these psyops. 18

Yet, equally important is learning how to communicate your grievances and cross boundaries without becoming defensive, agitated, or provoked. 19 Meeting challenging ideas with resilience and convincing people of the merits of one’s arguments is an alternative to shutting down speech. 20 This path affirms that individuals can decide how to respond to the challenging ideas they will encounter. 20

Rebuild and Strengthen Communities:

Rebuild and strengthen your local communities. Attend church, support local businesses, and engage in social gatherings. Isolation is another tool used to control and weaken us. 21 Encourage and support community-based initiatives that leverage local knowledge and resources, fostering a sense of pride and collaboration. 21

Value community by promoting cultural and social reintegration, preserving cultural heritage, and encouraging activities that foster social cohesion, dialog, and understanding among diverse groups. 21 Prioritize education and skill development programs to empower the younger generation and enhance their prospects for the future. 21

Fight for independence. Advocate for your personal and national sovereignty. Reject the notion of being controlled by global organizations that dictate what you must do to participate in society. 12

Expose the Actors and Take Action:

Identify and call out those who are perpetuating these manipulative tactics. While their identities may be shrouded in secrecy, the impact of their actions is clear. Shine a light on their activities and hold them accountable. 9 14 15 8 16

Engage in peaceful but firm resistance against these manipulations. Make your voice heard through protests, petitions, or public discourse. It’s time to reclaim our independence and fight for a future where freedom and truth prevail. 12

Remember, as the terrifying totalitarian regimes of the past used these tactics against their people, the same could happen to us. It will take people who understand they are being manipulated and used and want their independence and freedom to create a peaceful and meaningful life for all. Stand tall, patriots, and let’s reclaim our nation!

Conclusion

The dark truth of modern psyops reveals a continuous battle between those seeking control and individuals fighting for freedom. Throughout history, powerful actors have employed sophisticated psychological tactics to manipulate public opinion and behavior, from Edward Bernays’ “engineering of consent” to the propaganda campaigns of totalitarian regimes. Today, these tactics have evolved, using fear, division, and censorship to erode civil liberties and exert control over populations.

As we face these challenges, staying informed is crucial, questioning dominant narratives and rebuilding solid communities. By recognizing manipulation, resisting fear-mongering, and defending free speech, we can reclaim our independence and fight for a future where truth and freedom prevail. Patriots, it’s time to rise up and take back our nation – join the fight, spread the truth, and defend your freedom against those who seek to control us through psychological manipulation.

FAQs

What are the different categories of psychological operations (PSYOPs)?

There are primarily three categories: strategic, operational, and tactical. Strategic PSYOPs are informational activities by U.S. government agencies outside the military, often utilizing Department of Defense (DOD) resources.

Is it legal to conduct psychological warfare?

In the United States, PSYOP units and personnel from all military branches are legally forbidden from targeting U.S. citizens with psychological operations within the country’s borders, as per Executive Order S-1233, DOD Directive S-3321.1, and National Security Decision Directive 130.

Can you provide an example of a psychological operation?

A notable example of a PSYOP was during the Vietnam War when the U.S. government used loudspeakers to broadcast messages designed to encourage Viet Cong soldiers to defect as part of a broader campaign to influence enemy behavior.

What does the PSYOP program entail?

The PSYOP program involves soldiers specializing in advanced communication and unconventional tactics. These soldiers are trained to transform words into impactful actions to aid and advance U.S. Army goals.

References

[1] – https://www.quora.com/What-are-historys-best-examples-of-manipulation

[2] – https://fee.org/articles/policy-science-kills/

[3] – https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/sacramento-street-psychiatry/201308/review-century-the-self-bbc-documentary

[4] – https://academyofideas.com/2017/07/edward-bernays-group-psychology-manipulating-the-masses/

[5] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Engineering_of_Consent

[6] – https://medium.com/@laila.kassam/mmm-bacon-the-engineering-of-consent-872e4476efd2

[7] – https://theconversation.com/the-manipulation-of-the-american-mind-edward-bernays-and-the-birth-of-public-relations-44393

[8] – https://apps.dtic.mil/sti/pdfs/ADA302389.pdf

[9] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychological_operations_(United_States)

[10] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guatemalan_Revolution

[11] – https://theintercept.com/2024/04/02/pentagon-army-psyops/

[12] – https://gh.bmj.com/content/7/5/e008684

[13] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9734873/

[14] – https://www.apa.org/monitor/jun03/operation

[15] – https://www.researchgate.net/publication/306354998_The_Technological_Evolution_of_Psychological_Operations_Throughout_History

[16] – https://irp.fas.org/doddir/army/fm3-05-301.pdf

[17] – https://www.freedomforum.org/free-speech-on-social-media/

[18] – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9963596/

[19] – https://thriveworks.com/help-with/category/emotional-manipulation-tactics/

[20] – https://www.thefire.org/news/approaching-challenging-ideas-resilience-not-fear

[21] – https://www.quora.com/In-what-ways-can-communities-come-together-to-rebuild-and-restore-areas-affected-by-conflict

[22] – ‘They Need Our Faith’. https://www.frc.org/updatearticle/20210716/need-faith

[23] – Bourdain film illustrates ethical issues with voice cloning, media manipulation • Iowa Capital Dispatch. https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2021/07/24/bourdain-film-illustrates-ethical-issues-with-voice-cloning-media-manipulation/

[24] – Study: COVID policies do more harm than good – People to People TV. https://peopletopeople.tv/2022/06/05/study-covid-policies-do-more-harm-than-good/

[25] – The Online Misinformation Dilemma: “The Remedy To Be Applied Is More Speech.” https://keep.lib.asu.edu/items/148094

[26] – https://www.infowars.com/posts/psyops-are-not-new-just-more-dangerous/

[27] – https://brownstone.org/articles/psyops-are-not-new-just-more-dangerous/

[28] – https://brownstone.org/author/debbie-lerman/

[29] – https://brownstone.org/articles/lockdowns-counterterrorism-not-public-health/

[30] – https://brownstone.org/author/aaron-kheriaty/

[31] – https://brownstone.org/articles/the-digital-panopticon/

[32] – https://brownstone.org/author/jeffrey-tucker/

[33] – https://brownstone.org/articles/eugenics-then-and-now/

[34] – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnPmg0R1M04&t=18s

[35] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Torches_of_Freedom

[36] – https://brownstone.org/articles/the-ama-said-trust-your-doctor-on-smoking/

[37] – https://www2.umbc.edu/che/tahlessons/pdf/historylabs/Guatemalan_Coup_student:RS01.pdf

[38] – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Engineering_of_Consent

[39] – https://theconversation.com/the-manipulation-of-the-american-mind-edward-bernays-and-the-birth-of-public-relations-44393

[40] – https://archive.org/details/biographyofideam00bern

[41] – https://dailysceptic.org/2023/03/06/the-conspiracy-of-pandemic-preparedness/

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