“Substitution of definitions” is a psychological technique based on a logical mistake. It involves presenting an object or phenomenon to the audience as something it is not. Over time, this substituted statement takes root and begins to work in society as the only true one.
Example:
Putin’s statement that the growth of GDP is the growth of the economy and, consequently, the standard of living
Any economist knows that GDP growth is not the same as economic growth – it is one of its components. GDP growth is not related to the growth of living standards. Therefore, in this example, we see a double substitution of concepts
But an average russian citizen, listening to putin’s speech about increasing GDP, will only think of his or her own better life. Although, as is already clear, one does not mean the other
This technology is often used by russian propagandists, in particular, when they use the term “special operation” instead of “war”, or ” bangs” instead of “explosions”, etc.
