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Michael N.'s avatar

Love the analysis of the breakdown between Democrat and Republican voters along economic lines, that really should have been a defining moment for the entire party to realize that they've become irrelevant to the very working class people they claim to be representing. I also really like the use of the term economic democracy, both because of the contrast with a political democracy and because democracy as a concept reverberates deeply within all of us as one of the few values that all Americans still seem to hold dear.

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Ronald Logan's avatar

In a future article, I hope to expand on your point that "democracy as a concept reverberates deeply within all of us as one of the few values that all Americans still seem to hold dear."

We all want to feel empowered. It is a key requirement for being able to express our aspirations. The call for economic democracy can become a powerful meme.

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Christy Shaver's avatar

I resonate deeply with what you've shared; you've captured the core issues powerfully. My question, though, is about how we can shape this story and create a framework that resonates with a broader audience, especially with those who may not yet be aligned with or aware of PROUT principles.

There’s a powerful, universal appeal in the ideas of economic empowerment, community control, and dignity. I wonder how we might present these concepts in a way that feels both relevant and urgent for people from all backgrounds, many of whom are grappling with economic challenges and might find hope in a model of economic democracy. Could we find ways to focus on relatable, everyday experiences—such as job security, fair wages, affordable living, and local business vitality? Maybe emphasizing these shared values, we can make this story resonate beyond ideological boundaries.

How can we develop a narrative that frames economic democracy as a practical, inclusive solution that enhances quality of life and safeguards freedom? This might be a way to bridge gaps, inviting more people to explore and rally around PROUT-inspired ideas. I believe that in doing so, we’d be crafting a message that aligns with the values many hold dear, even if they’re not yet familiar with PROUT itself.

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Ronald Logan's avatar

I agree that this is an important aspect of the task before us. As you probably know, new ideas are generally accepted first by those who are innovators and first adaptors. So the first consideration is how do we reach those who are more progressive in their thinking. This being said, we should keep in mind that there are many in the business and administrative sectors who are aware that society has deep problems and who are interested in solutions. But they are more likely to be impressed by practical approaches that they can see work.

Economic democracy has to be disseminated widely. As does one other core reform -- that of economic decentralization. Which I hope to address in a future post.

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Julie Duggan's avatar

Great article. I will be adopting your 'Economic Democracy'.

"2564 counties won by Trump generated only 29 percent of the GDP"

^^^^ so, how do we reach these people that keep voting against their own best interests? They vote straight R......and their life does not improve, it gets worse. How do they not see this.

Jefferson and Washington biggest fear was aristocracy of banks and corporations.

They are rolling in their graves.

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Ronald Logan's avatar

This is of course the big question. In 2016, Bernie Sanders was somewhat successful in competing for these voters with his democratic socialism agenda. My personal expectation is that Trump's second term will be such a disaster that not only will it become clear to those who are economically stressed that the MAGA movement has nothing substantive for them, but our economic system will be in deep crisis, opening opportunities to put forward even deeper solutions than democratic socialism.

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Julie Duggan's avatar

You are more optimistic than me. His voter base in republican states has been voting republican for years…….and many of these are the poorest states in the union. His voter base is gullible and easily distracted……..they cling to truth social and twitter and fox who all do nothing by lie and spread misinformation. And even if his base grows to hate him, Trump is already trying to stifle, work around the system and constitution.

I love Bernie

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Ronald Logan's avatar

I'm aware how bleak things look. And I do not doubt that they will get far worse. But in the end, lies, misinformation, and gullibility cannot stand up to reality. There will be a lot of hurt, but this is what it will take for the gullible and distracted and ignorant to realize that their way is not working. Survival is a powerful motivator. As is hope.

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Julie Duggan's avatar

You made me feel better......thank you

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