Episode 126: Unpacking Propaganda, Power, and Protest

The Latter Day Lens

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This episode of Latter Day Lens dives into some heavy-hitting topics, from the nature of propaganda in foundational American documents to the complexities of the BYU Honor Code and the nuanced role of conflict in societal change.

Here's a breakdown of the key discussions:

• Propaganda: Good or Bad? The hosts grapple with the definition of propaganda, debating whether historical documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Federalist Papers, or even public health campaigns like "Smoking Kills," qualify. Matt argues that if a message is intended to manipulate or is based on carefully selected (or omitted) truths, it's propaganda, regardless of its perceived positive outcome. He points out that even well-intentioned "propaganda" can lead to a skewed understanding of history, creating ongoing societal challenges. Levi, on the other hand, suggests that if something is honestly believed and not intended to deceive, it may not be harmful, even if it could be labeled as propaganda.
• The Pareto Principle and Human Nature: Shawn introduces the Pareto Principle (the 80/20 rule), suggesting it applies to various aspects of life, including human behavior and organizational effectiveness. He even attempts to connect it to scriptural concepts like "almost all men" exercising unrighteous dominion, implying that a minority often drives the majority of outcomes, both positive and negative. While the hosts playfully debate its "doctrinal" status, the principle is explored as a potential framework for understanding distribution of effort, waste, and even spiritual progress.
• Trustees vs. Delegates in Government: The conversation shifts to the role of elected officials, specifically in the context of the Big Beautiful Bill. The hosts discuss whether representatives should act as "delegates" (reflecting the direct will of their constituents) or "trustees" (making decisions based on their own informed judgment for the perceived best interest of their constituents). Matt strongly advocates for the trustee model, especially for complex issues like the federal budget, arguing that public opinion often lacks the necessary understanding. Levi agrees, emphasizing the importance of voting for character in leaders who can navigate unforeseen crises.
• BYU Honor Code's Application: The discussion tackles the ongoing debate about the BYU Honor Code, particularly the perception that it's not applied uniformly. Matt, drawing from his experience as a YSA bishop, provides a concrete example of disparate treatment between ecclesiastical and Honor Code Office processes, even for similar infractions.
• Addressing Historical Injustice and Societal Conflict: The episode concludes with a deep dive into how to address historical injustices, using the example of a Confederate statue's relocation in North Carolina. The hosts introduce sociological theories: "functionalism" (slow, cautious change to preserve societal stability) versus "conflict theory" (highlighting existing societal conflicts to drive change, even if it causes disruption). The conversation explores the nature of "peace" in politics and whether it means the absence of conflict or actively addressing underlying issues, even if it leads to discomfort. The distinction between peaceful protest and destructive rioting is also a key point of contention.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Homework Discussion
00:58 The Nature of Propaganda
05:54 Debating Historical Documents as Propaganda
11:49 The Pareto Principle and Its Implications
23:55 Trustees vs. Delegates in Representation
31:28 BYU Honor Code Controversy
38:31 Conflict Theory vs. Functionalism in Society