Passion Isn't Enough

Real Change

Eitan Hersh emphasizes the importance of tangible political engagement over mere political hobbyism. He suggests that political parties should focus on providing real services, such as emergency childcare, to demonstrate their commitment to citizens' needs 1. This approach, he argues, would be more impactful than traditional political advertisements. Hersh also highlights the effectiveness of deep canvassing in persuading individuals to change their views, despite its time-consuming nature 2.

The reason to do deep canvassing is not to remind people to vote. It's very hard to convince someone to change their mind about an issue.

--- Eitan Hersh

By engaging deeply with communities, individuals can play a significant role in local politics, moving beyond the national scene's noise.

   

Care Strategies

Hersh discusses how various groups use care and service as recruitment strategies, even controversial ones like the Ku Klux Klan. By addressing immediate needs, such as addiction support, these groups build connections without initially focusing on ideology 3. This method mirrors the approach of activists like Dave Fleischer, who shares personal stories to connect with individuals on complex issues 4.

Dave's method is to say, well, let me be vulnerable to you. Let me open myself up to you, and in return, maybe you might do the same.

--- Eitan Hersh

Such strategies highlight the power of personal connection in political engagement.

   

Tactics Shift

Contrasting historical and modern political tactics, Hersh notes a shift from service-oriented politics to hobbyism. He cites examples like the Ukrainian boss who gained influence by providing essential services, compared to today's focus on less impactful issues 5. Deep canvassing, despite initial skepticism, has proven effective in changing minds and engaging communities 2.

The country doesn't need them to follow Twitter. But I would say that the point of this book is that to tell the reader, hey, your country really does need you to do something.

--- Eitan Hersh

Hersh advocates for a return to community-focused political action to drive real change.