Political Propaganda Posters and Their Influence on Public Opinion: Visual Rhetoric and Political Communication

Abstract

This study examines the role of political posters in shaping public opinion, identity, and civic participation. By combining images and words, posters influence emotions and decision-making, with examples ranging from historical propaganda to modern election campaigns. Using a qualitative descriptive approach supported by case studies and a literature review, the research analyzes examples such as Shepard Fairey’s Hope poster from Obama’s 2008 campaign, Bogotá’s 2019 mayoral election, Taiwan’s referendum campaigns, and wartime propaganda. The findings show that design elements such as color, layout, and facial imagery strongly affect audience attention and memory, while slogans and short text reinforce first impressions. Cultural and social contexts further shape how these messages are received, with case studies revealing that posters not only attract attention but also build group identity and motivate participation. In the digital era, posters remain persuasive tools that circulate rapidly through social media, raising both opportunities for engagement and ethical concerns about manipulation and misinformation. Their continued effectiveness highlights the enduring importance of posters as instruments of persuasion, cultural expression, and civic engagement.