The Global Times, a Chinese state-run media outlet, published an editorial titled “Why is WSJ again sensationalizing ‘global trade war’?” This piece claims that The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) is intentionally exaggerating the global trade war narrative, particularly targeting China. However, a close analysis suggests that this editorial is laden with propaganda techniques, selective data presentation, and one-sided arguments that serve to bolster China’s image while undermining Western media criticism.
Bias in Framing and Language Use:
The editorial strategically frames WSJ’s reporting as an unwarranted attack on China, suggesting that the American media is intent on portraying China in a negative light. The language used is emotionally charged and suggests a deliberate attempt by WSJ to create hysteria. This framing ignores the broader context of global trade tensions and the legitimate concerns other nations have about China’s trade practices, focusing solely on painting China as the victim of U.S. aggression.
Selective Use of Data and Misinformation:
The Global Times article selectively cites economic data to support its narrative, emphasizing China’s economic resilience and growth while downplaying or completely ignoring issues such as intellectual property theft, market access restrictions, and the trade imbalance that have been central to the trade disputes. By omitting these critical points, the article misleads readers into believing that the WSJ’s critiques are baseless, rather than rooted in complex economic realities.
Use of Propaganda Techniques:
Several propaganda techniques are evident in the editorial:
- Ad Hominem Attacks: The article questions the credibility and motives of WSJ journalists without addressing the substance of their reports. By attacking the messenger rather than the message, the Global Times diverts attention from the core issues.
- Appeal to Nationalism: The editorial invokes a sense of nationalism by suggesting that foreign media are conspiring against China. This tactic is designed to rally domestic support by presenting China as being under unjust attack from external forces.
- False Dichotomy: The article presents the situation as a binary choice between supporting China’s stance or being against China, thereby simplifying a complex international issue into an “us vs. them” scenario.
The Global Times’ editorial on WSJ’s so-called sensationalism regarding the global trade war is a clear example of state-driven propaganda. By using biased framing, selective data presentation, and various propaganda techniques, the article attempts to discredit legitimate criticisms of China’s trade practices. Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate such content and seek out multiple perspectives to obtain a more balanced understanding of global trade dynamics.
