("Stop It with 'Gun Control'. Enough Already")
Framing is a way of directing perspective, a cognitive three card monte. It has relevance in every aspect of politics from "China flu"(looking for a villain rather than addressing our own failings) and "mandating" the wearing of masks (an infringement on personal liberty rather than a simple measure to save countless lives) to "clean coal" (making an old problem seem to disappear) or the Ronald Reagan not so subtle denunciation of "welfare queens" (not seeking a hand up but merely a hand out).
It is in the way products are sold, "double stuf"(not more calories but more pleasure) or donations are sought ("can you give just $10"). And yes, it is in the language we utilize to try to rein in our out of control gun problem in this nation.
But I fear the "Second Amendment" and "they are coming for your guns" manipulation of this particular issue has been so deeply ingrained in the psyche of so many in this country that it will take far more than what Mr. Bruni now suggests to materially alter thinking.
Unfortunately, instead of referring to this as a "gun safety" matter and anticipating it could be an effective way to alter positions maybe giving a double stuf Oreo for every change of heart would be a more productive way to move the needle.
2 comments:
So well said. Congress has failed to portray the NRA's campaign contributions as being nothing more than massive bribery of our entire legislative branch. Suing each individual politician for bribery may be our only path to meaningful reform. --RE
Oreos sell their snacks with/as Double Stuf. Not double stuffed. Just sayin'.
PB
My response - Correction made. Thanks for the heads up (was this information provided from first hand knowledge?)
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