Plain English with Derek Thompson
The Four Biggest Myths About Political Persuasion
Aug 16, 2024
David Broockman, a political scientist from UC Berkeley, joins the discussion to debunk the four biggest myths about political persuasion. They explore how mind-changing during elections is rare and the psychological factors influencing voter decisions. Broockman emphasizes the need to understand moral foundations, contrasting conservative and progressive values for effective persuasion. They highlight the challenges of reaching swing voters with positive messaging while revealing how media exposure can subtly shift opinions, though often temporarily.
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Quick takeaways
- Understanding differing moral values is crucial for effective political persuasion, as strategies must align with the audience's core beliefs.
- Political campaigns should focus on defining candidates rather than attacking opponents, as positive messaging has proved more effective in persuasion.
Deep dives
The Impact of Moral Foundations on Political Persuasion
Political differences are often rooted in differing moral values, as highlighted by the work of Matthew Feinberg and Rob Willer. Conservatives tend to prioritize order, safety, and patriotism, while progressives emphasize equality and justice. This divergence can lead to ineffective persuasive efforts when individuals try to use their own moral frameworks to appeal to the opposing side. To persuade a conservative on immigration issues, for example, one should appeal to values such as the American Dream and family needs rather than focusing solely on human rights and equality.
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