by Kathie MM
Authoritarian governments dislike facts and the promoters of facts—particularly independent journalists and scientists, because independent journalists and scientists are often the promoters of facts and scientific findings that do not feed into the self-serving agendas of the autocrats.
Among the scientists whose psychological insights on authoritarianism we have shared on engaging peace are Roy Eidelson , Anthony Marsella , and George Lakoff , all of whom have grave warnings about threats to democracy and human rights.
Today, for the lovers of peace and justice who are appalled by the authoritarian forces ruling our country today, here is some advice adapted from George Lakoff’s formula for flipping negative attacks by authoritarian power mongers into positive progress for Americans:
- Don’t help spread negative messages by re-tweeting them or forwarding them with their own abominable negative language and disinformation intact.
- Do focus on the correct information, the alternative messages designed to promote peace and justice.
- Do talk to people about what’s happening in the country right now.
- Frame your arguments, your recommendations about healing our government, in your own words, focusing on the good things you want to see happen rather than the bad things being promoted by the authoritarians. In addition,
- Join the #ProtectTheTruth campaign
- Support the independent media.
- Fund the political candidates who will take on the authoritarians.
- Urge people to vote in November.