How to Win an Information War

The story of Sefton Delmer, the Briton who ran black propaganda against the Nazis — and what his techniques reveal about modern disinformation.

Pomerantsev weaves a fascinating historical narrative with urgent contemporary relevance. Delmer's WWII propaganda techniques — creating fake radio stations, spreading demoralizing rumors, exploiting existing grievances — are the same playbook used in modern information warfare. Understanding the mechanics of disinformation has sharpened my ability to question data sources and narratives in financial reporting and market analysis. The book is as much a cautionary tale about media consumption as it is a history lesson. Read it alongside Cialdini's Influence and Bernays' Propaganda for a complete framework.

My Review