Control Room Propaganda

It is okay for the government to mislead in order to promote security.

Initially, during the class discussion I agreed with this statement. The reason for this is because I assumed the government had the best interest for the people, but I discarded possible costs. My opinion towards this deviated from my initial response. Often times government’s aim to burgeon their economic status as opposed to protect the wellbeing of the people. In the documentary, Control Room, it was revealed that the American government invaded Iraq in 2003 with the aim of elevating their economy. But, this act harmed the Iraqi civilians. The Americans were deceived of this and perceived that the US army was bringing “justice” and “freedom” to the Iraqi citizens.

Therefore, I do not agree with this statement especially when human rights are violated and civilians were harmed. The American media purported their acts as bringing justice this was highlighted it many instances. I was especially intrigued when the American media displayed children celebrating Bush, when in fact the children were saying “Goddam Bush” in Arabic, and thus the media took advantage of the language barrier.

My grandmother is Iraqi, therefore I can personally condemn the invasion of Iraq as it affected my family personally, and therefore in my eyes it is not okay for the government to mislead regardless of whether it is for security measures. It is imperative for governments to ensure their actions do not impose harm regardless of any benefits.