Aaron

Don’t use a straw man argument, use a steel man argument.

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An excellent thread from @farnamstreet on producing better arguments. Priceless advice for any campaigner or lobbyist. Too often we use straw arguments, thinking they will win. They don’t. They a swept away, and you don’t win. Instead, use this technique, and create a steelman, and your chances of winning will increase. Strange it appeared as … Read more

Some books and people who have influenced my thinking

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Last week I was asked over dinner about the people and books that have influenced my thinking on communicating public policy. Some Key Books Chris Rose, How to Win Campaigns (link) Chris Rose, What Makes People Tick (link) Barbara Minto, The Minto Pyramid Principle (link) I have just finished a course by Edward Tufte that … Read more

The excellent advice of Mortimer J. Adler

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If you want to become a better lobbyist, you’d be well advised to read and apply the ideas of the late Mortimer J Adler. Adler’s advice on better speaking, listening, writing and reading are as helpful today as they were  first published in 1940 and 1983. On Better Listening and Speaking Mortimer Adler’s book “How … Read more

What forces impede good decision making in lobbying?

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  A useful list of forces that impede good decision-making from Farnham Street.  They seem equally applicable to lobbying and campaigning. What others would you add? Here are some more from my side:   Lateness Political blindness Denial of political reality – the votes are not saying what we want them to say Stasis $ … Read more