Propaganda is the calculated manipulation of information designed to shape public opinion and behavior to predetermined ends, as desired by the propagandist. It is usually emotional and repetitive, either designed to increase enthusiasm for a proposed utopian world or to escalate rage and hatred against a designated enemy, often a religion, an economic or political system, a race or a special group. Propaganda, in its essence, is art in the service of political power. The Soviets called it “art-a-fighting”. Only government sponsored art is permitted. In additional to exalting the leader, and “scapegoating” the designated target groups, artists are commissioned to create expensive statuary, show radiant youth, glorious vistas and write celebratory songs, poems, books and theater plays – all in support of the current propaganda needs. Anyone who dissents or criticizes these ideas is considered dangerous, often imprisoned and sometimes exterminated. The police or the military is used to terrify and arrest the nonconformists, for which it is glorified. The best sign that propaganda has succeeded is when the people, who faithfully toe the propaganda line, actually believe they are acting this way of their own free will.