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From pictorial to deepfake propaganda : a study of visual manipulation across eras

Oosterkamp, Kiki van den (2025) From pictorial to deepfake propaganda : a study of visual manipulation across eras.

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Abstract:As governments and citizens alike are facing the challenges posed by deepfake propaganda, policymakers and legislators are falling behind. However, propaganda is not a new concept, pictorial propaganda, for example, has been used by governments for centuries. This paper will analyse older pictorial propaganda and discuss whether deepfake propaganda is a continuation or a break from pictorial propaganda. The research question posed is, To what extent does deepfake propaganda constitute a break or a continuation of pictorial propaganda? It is answered through a content analysis where three cases are investigated. The cases are Stalin’s pictorial propaganda regime, the Obama deepfake video and the Zelensky deepfake video. The cases are analysed through ATLAS.ti. The findings show that there is a continuation in roots and manipulative intent in both types of propaganda, as well as a break in the aspects of impact, publishing and reach. Therefore, this study shows that deepfake propaganda can neither be generalised as a break or continuation. It is dependent on the perspective taken by the researcher. This research provides valuable insights into the nature of deepfake propaganda and adds to the discussion of deepfake resilience and the future impact of deepfakes.
Item Type:Essay (Bachelor)
Faculty:BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences
Subject:02 science and culture in general, 15 history, 88 social and public administration, 89 political science
Programme:Management Society and Technology BSc (56654)
Link to this item:https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/105074
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