What climate activists need to learn from the NRA and the gun-control wars

[babsbunny]

http://www.grist.org/article/2010-08-17-what-climate-activists-need-to-learn-from-nra-gun-control-wars

by Robert Walker

17 Aug 2010 6:43 AM

Supporters of climate-change legislation have much to learn from an organization that is often rated as the most powerful lobby in Washington: the National Rifle Association.

The gun lobby is not invincible, but it has won a disproportionate share of its battles. The NRA and its allies have not relied on data collection and scrupulously reasoned arguments to carry the day. To the contrary, the gun lobby has focused on building and energizing its small membership base, working to influence the outcome of critical elections, and employing bare-knuckled tactics.

[tularetom]

1. Saturation bombing of a dumbed down appeal to naked fear is always effective

I get at least one appeal per month from the NRA and they're almost comical. Ironically I agree with their basic message but IMO they've gone way overboard with the fear card.

No reason the climate change legislation advocates couldn't use the same scare tactics.

They just have tailor their pitch to about a 4th grade reading level.

[HiFructosePronSyrup]

2. It also helps to have your issue protected by the bill of rights.

That really helps them.

[damntexdem]

3. Lying loud, wide, and often works?

No, for climate change -- I don't think so.

[xchrom]

4. Recommend - it's amusing to think of the campaigns

That would result in.