The Gray Area with Sean Illing Are you a "political hobbyist?" If so, you're the problem.
Mar 9, 2020
Eitan Hersh, a political science professor at Tufts University and author of "Politics is for Power," challenges the trend of political hobbyism. He highlights how obsessively following politics can detract from meaningful action, arguing that many mistake idle engagement for real political work. Hersh calls for a shift towards community-centered politics, emphasizing grassroots activism and the importance of local engagement. He also discusses deep canvassing as a method to foster empathy and revive genuine political power through service rather than mere fascination.
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Eitan Hersh's Political Origins
- Eitan Hersh's background is rooted in political hobbyism, growing up in a politically aware but inactive family.
- Early experiences with politics, including working for both Democrats and Republicans, felt "dirty" and unappealing.
Politics as a Verb, Not a Noun
- Hersh distinguishes between passively consuming political information and actively participating to influence government.
- He argues that most people confuse being interested in politics with actual political work.
Political Hobbyism by the Numbers
- A third of Americans reportedly spend two hours daily on political news consumption, but very little time on real political action.
- White, college-educated men tend to know the most political facts but participate the least in organized action.
