OM DENNE EPISODE
Making Campaigns Count: The Science of Effective Activism
What separates a campaign that changes the world from one that fades into obscurity? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by returning guest Dr Craig Dalzell from the think tank Commonweal to explore the research-backed principles of effective activism and civil resistance.
Drawing on the groundbreaking work of academics like Erica Chenoweth and Gene Sharp, we dive deep into what actually works—and what doesn't—when organizing for change. Why do some campaigns achieve their goals while others struggle to gain traction? What's the difference between activism that captures hearts and minds versus campaigns that peter out?
In this episode, we:
Examine planning and organizing methods used by successful movements, what they did right and where campaigns went wrong.
We also explore the powerful potential of civil resistance and strategic disobedience and discover how to sharpen our campaigning focus for maximum impact.
Key chapters:
00:02:11 Core principles for escalating pressure
00:12:32 4 key steps for effective campaign planning
00:18:47 Options for organisational structures
00:26:02 The role of devolved governments
00:30:04 Re-designing events to increase pressure
00:32:53 Civil obedience/disobedience and resistance tactics
00:43:36 Contrasting the tactics of the far right
00:45:43 Further resources and information
00:50:37 Some ideas to get started
Commonweal are planning to update their excellent handbook "How to Start A New Country" Craig and Common Weal wish to thank the Scottish Independence Fund ( https://sif.scot ) for their generous support of the project. Commonweal will also shortly launch a Crowdfunder - details will be added here when available.
You can also make a regular donation to support all their work here https://www.commonweal.scot/donate
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Music:
Inspired by Kevin MacLeod
Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political. Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.
