Posted by
ShiningCity on Thursday, November 13, 2008 4:12:49 PM
by
Gimpel
"The research suggests that those who at various times occupy this
center, often described as moderates or independents, are not very
knowledgeable about or interested in politics. They do not follow
campaign coverage closely, are inconsistent in their policy views, and
are often not able to identify what positions are liberal or
conservative.
What characterizes the centrist voter is not some
peculiar set of policy positions, but rather ignorance of policy issues
in general, coupled with vague impressions of the 'goodness' or 'badness' of the times. So-called centrist or moderate voters can’t
even be counted on to vote.
Consequently, they make a lousy
starting point from which to frame a campaign platform. A campaign
doesn’t move toward them, but instead attempts to inspire them to come
in the candidate’s direction. The incoherent center moves to the left
or to the right, inspired by the candidate’s enthusiasm and the
enthusiasm of his supporters. It is foolish for the candidate to move
to the center, because the center is never a fixed position to move
toward."
I rather like this position, acknowledging the presence of the Unprincipled Middle. I believe in this theory. I also like the language that we should work to "inspire" the Unprincipled. That's good talk.
And one other thought which just came to me: Somebody ought to write a form of Wikipedia that isn't a liberal gas bag.