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Friday, November 26, 2004
Lakoff's Framing
Kevin Drum at Political Animal, the blog of The Washington Monthly, has described his reactions, both pro and con, upon reading George Lakoff's new book, Don't Think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate--The Essential Guide for Progressives. Elephant is viewed by many as required reading for all progressives. Howard Dean and many others think Lakoff's take on political messaging and issue "framing" is the best thing since sliced bread. Drum is less enamored of Lakoff. Check out Drum's analysis and the blog debate that follows.
What's your take on Lakoff and his theories? Have you read his new book yet? What did you think?
November 26, 2004 at 01:30 PM in Democratic Party | Permalink
Comments
I think Lakoff's a better thinker than writer. Sometimes his ideas aren't as readable as they ought to be, coming from a linguist. I think they lose something in the translation, though I haven't read Elephant yet (haven't seen it here in UK--I'll add it to my BN wishlist). I sincerely hope some Democrats take his ideas, which are sound, and apply them appropriately. In fact, Oliver Willis over at Brand Democrat already has: https://www.oliverwillis.com/branddemocrat/
Posted by: Kathy | Nov 29, 2004 7:19:09 AM
I haven't yet read Elephant, but I hear it is much more clear and understandable than his longer academic works. There are several book discussion groups being formed around here to talk about Lakoff and his framing theories. Anything we can do to help create a clear message for Democrats is certainly welcome.
I love Oliver Willis's Brand Democrat campaign and have featured it on this website. See
Definitely gonna order some of his gear for xmas. There's a link to his CafePress shop under Political Gear in the right-hand sidebar of this page.
Posted by: barb | Nov 29, 2004 10:57:49 AM
