Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Do Words Decide the Election?

One huge problem for Sanders is his self-proclaimed title as a socialist. This fact poses the question: would he have more supporters if he had the same ideas, but instead used a different title? The answer is probably yes; socialist has a negative connotation in politics in the United States. Unfortunately, many people do not know the actual meaning of socialism, but it is associated with "anti-American" ideas. The use of the word socialism can be considered a use of pathos, but the pathos could lose him the election.
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2 comments:

  1. Bernie H.October 13, 2015 at 8:19 PM

    Yes, it's all about seizing control of the word. What makes Sanders different is he doesn't run away from it -- he redefines it. That's a breath of fresh air.

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  2. AnonymousOctober 13, 2015 at 9:22 PM

    Although the word itself weakens his support from some Americans, it seems that the radical and less common idea of socialism is attractive to younger voters which could be helping his candidacy-- I also agree with what Mr. Heidkamp mentioned, it's great that he really defines the word socialism, rather than just using it as a title.

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