The strategic dissemination of biased information to influence public opinion, central to maintaining control and shaping perceptions within Panem, is a recurring theme throughout Suzanne Collins’s “The Hunger Games” trilogy. This manipulation, orchestrated by the Capitol, aims to reinforce its authority and suppress dissent amongst the districts. For example, carefully crafted broadcasts portray the Hunger Games as a noble tradition and a testament to the Capitol’s benevolence, while simultaneously showcasing the consequences of rebellion.
The benefits to the ruling power are multifaceted. It ensures compliance by creating a culture of fear and obedience. By controlling narratives and disseminating selective information, the Capitol maintains its grip on resources and power, preventing organized resistance. Historically, such tactics have been employed by authoritarian regimes to consolidate power, suppress opposition, and legitimize their rule, drawing parallels to real-world examples of state-sponsored manipulation.
