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Politics Is for Power

Politics Is for Power

How to Move Beyond Political Hobbyism, Take Action, and Make Real Change
by Eitan D. Hersh 2020 288 pages
4.10
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Key Takeaways

1. Political hobbyism undermines effective civic engagement

In treating politics like a hobby, we have demanded they act that way.

Defining hobbyism. Political hobbyism refers to consuming and participating in politics through obsessive news-following, online "slacktivism," and endless debate, mostly from behind screens. This behavior is prevalent among educated, white, male Americans who spend significant time on politics but without serious purpose.

Consequences of hobbyism:

  • Encourages politicians to focus on outrage and grandstanding
  • Takes time away from effective organizing and community engagement
  • Leads to increased polarization and less compromise
  • Cedes political power to those more committed to action

Contrasting with real engagement. True political participation involves building relationships, organizing communities, and taking concrete actions to influence policy and elections. Examples include canvassing, running for local office, or providing direct services to community members.

2. True political participation requires building relationships and power

The power vacuum will be filled.

Building political capital. Effective political engagement involves cultivating relationships and trust within communities. This allows organizers to mobilize voters, influence policy, and create sustainable change.

Key components of relationship-based politics:

  • Regular, face-to-face interactions with community members
  • Listening to and addressing local concerns
  • Providing tangible benefits or services to constituents
  • Developing a network of volunteers and supporters
  • Focusing on long-term power building rather than short-term outrage

Examples of success. The book highlights several individuals who have built political power through community relationships, such as Naakh Vysoky in Brighton and Querys Matias in Haverhill. These organizers gained influence by helping neighbors with practical needs and consistently showing up for their communities.

3. Media and technology fuel shallow political engagement

We are making politics worse.

The outrage cycle. Modern media, especially social media and cable news, prioritize conflict, drama, and outrage. This creates a feedback loop where consumers demand increasingly provocative content, and politicians adjust their behavior to capture attention.

Consequences of media-driven politics:

  • Focus on national drama over local issues
  • Decreased ability to empathize with political opponents
  • Addiction to constant news updates and commentary
  • Replacement of substantive policy discussions with performative outrage

The illusion of participation. Social media and online petitions create a sense of political engagement without requiring real-world action or relationship building. This "slacktivism" can actually decrease motivation for more meaningful participation.

4. Political parties have lost their grassroots organizing power

Local political parties have been gutted of their powers.

Historical context. In the past, local party organizations played a crucial role in community life, providing services and building relationships with voters. Progressive reforms aimed at reducing corruption inadvertently weakened these grassroots structures.

Consequences of weak local parties:

  • Decreased voter turnout, especially in local elections
  • Loss of connection between citizens and political processes
  • Increased influence of national media and money in politics
  • Difficulty in recruiting and training new political leaders

Potential for revival. Some communities, like Washington County, Oregon, have revitalized local party structures through programs like the "neighborhood leader" system. These efforts show promise in rebuilding political engagement from the ground up.

5. Outrage and moral conviction hinder political compromise

Moral conviction seems like a good thing. What is wrong about making a connection between policy issues and moral values?

The trap of moral outrage. When people view political issues as moral imperatives, they become less willing to compromise or consider alternative viewpoints. This leads to increased polarization and gridlock.

Factors contributing to moral politics:

  • Increased partisan sorting and ideological alignment
  • Media emphasis on conflict and extreme positions
  • Rise of "issue-oriented" politics over pragmatic problem-solving
  • Tendency to view political opponents as fundamentally immoral

Breaking the cycle. Effective political engagement requires balancing moral convictions with pragmatism and empathy. Leaders who can frame issues in terms of shared values and practical solutions are more likely to build coalitions and achieve meaningful change.

6. Empathy and listening are crucial for political persuasion

You know what issue we're canvassing on? It's love.

The power of deep canvassing. Traditional political canvassing often involves brief, scripted interactions. In contrast, "deep canvassing" focuses on building genuine connections through empathetic listening and sharing personal stories.

Key principles of empathetic engagement:

  • Approaching conversations with curiosity rather than judgment
  • Sharing vulnerable, personal experiences related to political issues
  • Actively listening to others' concerns and experiences
  • Finding common ground and shared values
  • Focusing on long-term relationship building over short-term persuasion

Results of empathetic approaches. Research has shown that deep canvassing techniques can lead to more durable changes in political attitudes, particularly on contentious issues like transgender rights or immigration.

7. Local engagement is key to creating meaningful political change

If you care about your political values, how could you not crave that power?

The importance of local politics. While national issues dominate media attention, local and state politics often have a more direct impact on people's lives. Engaging at this level allows individuals to see tangible results and build political power from the ground up.

Opportunities for local engagement:

  • Attending city council or school board meetings
  • Volunteering for local campaigns or issue-based initiatives
  • Joining or creating neighborhood associations
  • Participating in community service projects
  • Running for local office or party positions

Overcoming barriers. Many people feel disconnected from local politics due to lack of information or perceived lack of time. Effective organizers work to make local engagement more accessible and rewarding for community members.

8. Fear and linked fate drive political mobilization

Being white and financially comfortable makes it hard to understand a sense of fear that would push people to want power.

The role of fear in politics. Historical events like war or economic crises have often driven political engagement. In contemporary America, some groups feel more threatened than others, leading to disparities in political mobilization.

Linked fate and political action:

  • Concept of "linked fate" among minority groups
  • Perception that individual success is tied to group success
  • Higher rates of political volunteerism among Black and Latino Americans
  • Contrast with individualistic approach of many white Americans

Harnessing collective identity. Effective organizers recognize the power of shared identity and common threats in motivating political action. Building a sense of community and shared purpose can drive sustained engagement.

9. Direct community service builds political power

Politics is service. They are one and the same.

Service as political strategy. Providing tangible benefits to community members can build trust, loyalty, and political influence. This approach has been used effectively by various groups throughout history.

Examples of service-based politics:

  • Political machines providing jobs and social services
  • Religious organizations offering community support
  • Modern groups like the NRA or Democratic Socialists of America providing practical assistance to members
  • Immigrant community organizations helping with legal issues and social integration

Challenges to service-based politics. Many modern political organizations focus on fundraising and media strategy rather than direct service. Reorienting towards community needs requires a shift in priorities and resources.

10. Shifting from hobbyism to activism requires intentional effort

If I am to volunteer at all—and what impact could I possible have?—why not at least focus my time on a competitive congressional race or a swing state somewhere else?

Overcoming inertia. Many politically engaged individuals struggle to transition from passive consumption to active participation. This shift requires intentional choices and a willingness to step outside one's comfort zone.

Steps towards meaningful engagement:

  • Identify local organizations or causes aligned with your values
  • Start small with manageable commitments (e.g., attending a monthly meeting)
  • Seek out mentors or experienced organizers for guidance
  • Be willing to take on unglamorous tasks and build relationships over time
  • Focus on long-term impact rather than short-term emotional satisfaction

Reframing political identity. Moving from hobbyism to activism often requires redefining one's relationship to politics. This means seeing oneself as an active participant in shaping community outcomes rather than a passive observer of national drama.

Last updated:

FAQ

What's Politics Is for Power about?

  • Focus on Engagement: The book distinguishes between political hobbyism and genuine activism, urging readers to engage in politics for power and change rather than leisure.
  • Call to Action: Eitan D. Hersh argues that many Americans engage in politics for emotional satisfaction, not to influence their communities or advocate for their values.
  • Real Change vs. Hobbyism: Hersh emphasizes the need to move from consuming political content to actively participating in political organizations and grassroots movements.

Why should I read Politics Is for Power?

  • Understanding Dynamics: The book provides insights into how political engagement has shifted, especially among educated Americans, and its implications for democracy.
  • Encouragement for Action: Hersh motivates readers to take meaningful political action, highlighting the importance of community involvement over passive news consumption.
  • Inspiring Examples: The author shares stories of individuals who have successfully organized and mobilized their communities, illustrating the potential for real change.

What are the key takeaways of Politics Is for Power?

  • Hobbyism vs. Activism: The book delineates between engaging in politics as a hobby and as a serious pursuit for power, urging reflection on personal political behaviors.
  • Community Importance: Building relationships and community connections is essential for effective political organizing and achieving long-term goals.
  • Strategic Action: Hersh warns against moral outrage dictating actions, advocating for strategic engagement that prioritizes power acquisition.

What is political hobbyism according to Politics Is for Power?

  • Definition: Political hobbyism is consuming political news and engaging in superficial discussions without commitment to effecting change.
  • Emotional Satisfaction: Many engage in hobbyism to satisfy emotional needs rather than pursuing meaningful political action.
  • Democracy Impact: Hobbyism undermines democracy by diverting attention from serious engagement and activism.

How does Eitan D. Hersh suggest we move beyond political hobbyism?

  • Grassroots Organizing: Hersh advocates joining local political organizations and participating in community activism to build power and effect change.
  • Focus on Relationships: Building genuine relationships with community members fosters understanding and collaboration.
  • Long-Term Goals: Adopting a long-term perspective on political engagement is crucial, prioritizing sustained efforts over short-term reactions.

What are some examples of effective political activism in Politics Is for Power?

  • Voice of Westmoreland: Angela Aldous leads a grassroots organization focusing on community issues and building relationships to mobilize voters.
  • Deep Canvassing: Dave Fleischer’s method involves engaging voters personally to foster understanding and change opinions on contentious issues.
  • Precinct Organization: Drew Kromer’s efforts in North Carolina show how local organizing can empower communities and influence elections.

How does empathy play a role in political organizing as discussed in Politics Is for Power?

  • Building Connections: Empathy is crucial for organizers to connect with voters, especially those with differing political views.
  • Fostering Understanding: Empathetic engagement allows organizers to understand others' concerns and motivations, leading to productive conversations.
  • Encouraging Participation: Demonstrating empathy can inspire others to become involved in activism, creating a more inclusive community.

What are the dangers of political hobbyism mentioned in Politics Is for Power?

  • Undermining Democracy: Hobbyism weakens democratic processes by diverting attention from serious engagement, allowing extremist groups to gain power.
  • Encouraging Polarization: It fosters a culture of outrage and division, hindering constructive dialogue across political lines.
  • Short-Term Focus: Hobbyism prioritizes immediate gratification over long-term strategic action, hindering meaningful progress.

How does Politics Is for Power address the issue of partisanship?

  • Partisan Loyalty: Political hobbyism often leads to blind loyalty to one’s party, reducing willingness to engage with opposing viewpoints.
  • Impact on Behavior: Partisanship can drive individuals to prioritize team loyalty over effective governance, exacerbating gridlock.
  • Need for Dialogue: Hersh advocates fostering dialogue and understanding between partisans to bridge divides and promote effective action.

What are the best quotes from Politics Is for Power and what do they mean?

  • Disconnect in Organizations: “We do politics as a hobby because such organizations as local party committees do not typically have a serious vision or resources.”
  • Power from Service: “Power is derived from serving others,” encapsulating the book's thesis that genuine engagement comes from addressing community needs.
  • Empathy in Politics: “If you show them that the Democratic Party cares about them, then maybe they’ll vote for your side,” emphasizing empathy and community service in engagement.

How does Politics Is for Power address the role of privilege in politics?

  • Cultural Context: A culture of privilege can lead to political disengagement, particularly among college-educated white individuals.
  • Impact on Institutions: Weak political institutions result from this culture, failing to engage citizens meaningfully and contributing to hobbyism.
  • Call for Accountability: Hersh calls for recognizing privilege and engaging in politics that serves the broader community to create a more equitable landscape.

What strategies does Politics Is for Power recommend for building political power?

  • Invest in Organizers: Investing in local organizers who can build relationships and mobilize communities is crucial for lasting change.
  • Community Service: Providing direct services to the community builds goodwill and trust, bridging the gap between citizens and institutions.
  • Empathetic Engagement: Engaging with voters empathetically fosters understanding and connection, addressing community needs effectively.

Review Summary

4.10 out of 5
Average of 1k+ ratings from Goodreads and Amazon.

Politics Is for Power argues that many politically engaged people are "hobbyists" who consume news and debate online but don't engage in meaningful action. The book encourages readers to build local political power through community organizing and relationship-building. While some reviewers found it repetitive, many appreciated its critique of passive engagement and its examples of effective grassroots organizing. Some wished for more concrete advice, but overall readers found it a thought-provoking call to move beyond armchair politics and work for real change in one's community.

Your rating:
4.5
42 ratings

About the Author

Eitan Hersh is a political scientist and associate professor at Tufts University. His research focuses on voter behavior, election administration, and political participation. Hersh has written extensively on data and technology in politics, including his previous book "Hacking the Electorate." In "Politics Is for Power," he draws on his academic expertise and personal experiences to critique what he calls "political hobbyism" and advocate for more active civic engagement. Hersh's work has been featured in major publications and he frequently provides commentary on political issues. His approach combines rigorous research with accessible writing to engage both academic and general audiences.

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