Persuasion and propaganda – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, C and E are correct, whereas D is incorrect. A is true because persuasion typically relies on arguments and evidence to influence attitudes. B is true since propaganda often involves one-sided or distorted information. C is true as ethics in communication include honesty about motives. E is true because media literacy equips learners to analyse messages critically. D is false because propaganda is rarely neutral; it is usually value-laden and directed toward specific outcomes. Therefore, D only is the wrong statement.

Option A:
Option A correctly isolates D as the only incorrect statement, acknowledging that all other statements align with established views on persuasion, propaganda and ethics. By pointing out that propaganda is not neutral, it highlights the manipulative potential often associated with it. Hence, D only is the correct choice.

Option B:
Option B combines A and D as wrong, but A accurately describes persuasion based on reasoning and evidence. Treating A as incorrect misrepresents the concept of persuasion, so A and D only cannot be accepted.

Option C:
Option C groups D and E as wrong, but E is actually a correct statement about the importance of critical media literacy. Labelling E as incorrect contradicts contemporary approaches to media education, making D and E only an invalid option.

Option D:
Option D lists B, D and E as wrong, but both B and E are correct: B describes propaganda’s use of distortion and E stresses media literacy. Including two true statements among supposed wrong ones renders B, D and E only unacceptable.