Luntz and Lakeoff

Ideas stick in people's minds when there is something sincere and refreshing to the public. Our brains have an interesting way of collecting language and concepts that make sense in our heads. People want things that they can frame. As Lakeoff said, these concepts have to fit "in the synopses of our brains." If not, they are not acknowledged as meaningful or memorable. These ideas are ones that connect with a person's particular identity and the values that they hold.

First of all, Lakeoff is assuming a kind of democracy that takes charege, and wins the hearts and minds of the people. Lakeoff suggests that what we need is a democracy that goes beyond the tactics of providing overwhelming "facts and statistics, debate victories, and proffered new policies." Well, he certainly wants to keep these methods for democracy, but they need more. However, is is hard to top the huge tactics of republicans and conservatives (considering the fact that half of their propositions are exaggerations and fabrications of help to the world). Also, conservatives have figured out the idea of framing and have used it to their advantage. This idea makes sense to me, since people think in frames, and that is no surprise. TALK to people in the manner where you yourself would want to listen. Progressives hear only the concepts that make sense and connect with their personal frame. The kind of democracy that Lakeoff is suggesting is helpful is the kind that truly listens to people and presents solutions to the public's problems and concerns in a reasonable way. The kind of democracy they are assuming is one that appeals to all people- especcially "the middle class."

Meg Campbell