IdeaLog
A short to-do list for progressives
Posted on November 13, 2024
It’s fair to say that our side does not have a good grasp on why Trump won, which is essential to know in order to win in the future. Most explanations are, quite naturally,...
What is fascism?
Posted on October 29, 2024
The word “fascism” is being used a lot right now, and with good cause. It is important to understand that fascism does not mean “bad” or “right-wing.” Fascism is a specific series of tactics...
How to argue against right-wing economics
Posted on October 16, 2024
To begin with, right-wing economics isn’t “conservative” because it isn’t based on conservative principles. The principles of conservative economics used to include: (1) less government spending; (2) reducing federal debt; (3) lower taxes for...
How to answer 20 tough questions
Posted on October 1, 2024
The following questions are phrased from a hostile point of view using right-wing framing of the issue. Whether the questioner is actually hostile or just curious, your best answer always starts at a point...
How to improve nonverbal presentation
Posted on September 17, 2024
You may have the best political ideas in the world (from PLI’s Progressive Agenda!) and employ the best messaging (from PLI’s Voicing Our Values!) but still communicate ineffectively because of a failure in non-verbal communication. In...
Freedom, Opportunity and Security for All
Posted on September 3, 2024
The overall purpose of our Voicing Our Values series of books and materials is to show you—a policymaker, activist, advocate, campaigner or candidate—how to persuade others. Our focus on political values is practical—it works. But that...
How to talk about taxes and voting
Posted on August 20, 2024
As we recently explained here, there are three key rules of persuasion: (1) Always begin in agreement; (2) Use values to frame the debate; and (3) Show listeners how they benefit. Here’s how to apply...
How to talk about LGBTQ+ rights and public schools
Posted on August 6, 2024
As we recently explained here, there are three key rules of persuasion: (1) Always begin in agreement; (2) Use values to frame the debate; and (3) Show listeners how they benefit. Here’s how to apply...
How to talk about gun violence and health care
Posted on July 24, 2024
As we recently explained here, there are three key rules of persuasion: (1) Always begin in agreement; (2) Use values to frame the debate; and (3) Show listeners how they benefit. Here’s how to apply...
How to talk about the environment, regulation and spending
Posted on July 7, 2024
As we recently explained here, there are three key rules of persuasion: (1) Always begin in agreement; (2) Use values to frame the debate; and (3) Show listeners how they benefit. Here’s how to apply...