The debates can do it. I talked to a chimp supporter tonight.

[Senior citizen]

We were standing in line and started talking just to kill time. I was wearing my Kerry button, of course, and he was wearing a gold pin with the chimp's name. The conversation went something like this:

Him: Well, I don't really understand (social or economic problem), but I think (sound bite).

Me: Careful explanation of social or economic problem in question, and what must be done to solve it.

Him: I agree with you on that, but I don't really understand (another social or economic problem), and I think (sound bite).

Me: Careful explanation of social or economic problem in question, and what must be done to solve it.

Him: I agree with you on that, but.... (rinse and repeat)

I ended up totally convinced that he agreed with me (and therefore with Kerry and the Democratic Party) on all the issues, but had simply been soundbitten and convinced that he really didn't understand things.

If there are a lot more like him around, the debates will be decisive. All Kerry has to do is talk straight to people like this guy, explain things the way I did, and let them see for themselves that despite all the soundbites, they agree with us. Because despite all the propaganda, they actually do.

(I don't know who was more surprised by our conversation, me or him.)

[jpgray]

1. Yep, and you have to tread carefully there

Many informed folks I have seen talking with those who are 'soundbitten' get frustrated and bombard the poor person with facts until that person naturally becomes defensive. Then views that were held half-heartedly to begin with become cemented just to avoid submitting to the arguments of someone who is making them feel stupid.

[ClassWarrior]

4. Yup, people aren't stupid - they just don't have a frame of reference...

...for most of it. Because the WHORE MEDIA don't give it to them. Best bet is to try to relate to the "soundbitten" and connect with them. When we call them stupid and act superior to them, that's when we lose.

23.

[JPJones]

12. Which is the definition of stupid n/t

[PermanentRevolution]

5. Yes!

A friend of mine at work voted for Bush last election. Another Dem colleague was really hammering him on Kerry, to the point where he started getting like "Don't tell me who to vote for." Luckily, I was there and told him to vote for whoever he wanted, but to find out about them first. He did, and he's a solid Kerry supporter now.

[4morewars]

2. Good Job !!!!

Now, rinse and repeat until Nov 2nd ! ;)
:hi:

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

3. "Soundbitten". I like that. n/t

[Erika]

6. Agreed. Great Job!

Mny Republicans need to learn he's a fraud when it comes to his assault on Iraq and its citizens.

[autorank]

7. I think everybody here is right on target!

People aren't stupid, they're just busy working 2.5 jobs per adult to keep their families going. As screwy as it is, I believe that the first debate is worth about about a 10 point spread (+/- 5 for either candidate). Someone on DU mentioned that Bush may want out, one of those cryptic, cool messages from another dimension. I believe that's the case also. Kerry will have his chance to show people he can lead and Bush his chance to totally undo himself.

BTW, Bush is not a 'great debater.' He sucked in all three presidential debates last time. The media tear-down of Gore was just too effective and Gore had his own little undoing with the sighing and all. Kerry won't make that mistake. I think he'll go for the throat and connect.

DOWN GOES BUSH...DOWN GOES BUSH...DOWN GOES BUSH

[drfemoe]

9. That's part of the "magick"

wear down effect. Works well for brainwashing cults too.

[War Pigs]

8. Dumb fucks think that assholes like Limpballs and Hannity personally

know and like them because they call them "friends" and "folks". Once that trust is gained, they abuse it by lying and distorting EVERY FUCKING DAY and these nimrods aren't smart enough to ever question what they say. It is truly baffling to me.:evilfrown: Gain the trust, then pulverize the brain with repetition/ sound bites.

[drfemoe]

10. Rinse Repeat

11 year olds >> check out this thread >>

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=132x896960

[gumby]

11. It's politely called "perception management"

but more accurately called psy-ops.

Are we to argue that the "targets" are "stupid" or "uninformed"?

I guess that's the dilemma. Whatever.