propaganda technique

Framing

Also called: Spin

Framing presents an issue through a chosen perspective, emphasising some aspects and hiding others, so that one conclusion seems natural.

How it works

Every description involves choices, and those choices shape judgement. Describing a policy as "saving 200 lives" or "letting 400 die" can produce opposite reactions to the same numbers.

Examples

"Tax relief for families" versus "tax cuts that drain public services".

The same change is framed as a gift or a loss before any figures are given.

A headline reports "Unemployment hits 5%" in one paper and "95% now in work" in another.

Identical data, opposite emotional framing.

How to spot it

Ask how else the same facts could be described.
Note what the frame leaves out.
Watch for metaphors such as war, flood, burden or relief.

How to respond

Restate the issue in a different frame and see whether your view changes.
Ask for the underlying numbers.
Name the frame openly in discussion.