There are two parts of politics that practically anyone can agree with. The first is that politics is, on the grandest scale, one of mankind’s most important aspects. The second is that politics, on an individual scale, can be one of the most boring worlds imaginable. While we might personally disagree with the latter statement, it’s difficult to deny that this is an overwhelming popular view on the subject.
The unfortunate reality is that, for many people, an opened door might be needed to get them involved in the ever-important political realm. Since we like to believe we’re trying to make the world a better place, we’ve come up with some ideas to help reach what might be otherwise indifferent friends and family. From playing games to placing bets, here are a couple of simple ideas that we’ve seen help in getting outsiders started.
Approachability with Gaming and Betting
The most successful way we’ve seen to get people interested in politics is by relating their knowledge with existing areas of passion. A great simple example of this can be found in the world of betting. There are websites out there that give odds on the US elections among their offerings. Other avenues here include the ability to bet on individual state’s outcomes, and possible Republican and Democratic nominees.
No matter how involved a person is within politics, they’ll unquestionably have opinions on who, according to their existing notions, is going to come out ahead. Confidence in this opinion might occur on a lower level, but by putting money on the line, people tend to become much more involved. This can then lead to greater research and eventual involvement.
Straight video gaming can also aid in playing a similar role. There are many games out there like Disco Elysium and The Outer Worlds in which players have to make important decisions relating to political beliefs. Do you hold the workers to account for their prior agreements, or do you help them rise against coercion and a lack of rights? This and many other choices can encourage discussion which relates to the real world, with the right approach.
Update: getting ready to make island visits. Never done this before! Is there etiquette to visiting? Do’s & don’ts?
— Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) May 7, 2020
Encourage, but Never Force
The general idea behind leaning on betting and gaming to drive political interest is, ultimately, to help foster a healthier overall level of discussion. Remember that in the 2016 elections, the total US voter turnout was only 55.4% of eligible individuals. Whether or not you agree with the results, it’s difficult to disagree that greater involvement and understanding would foster a higher overall level of rhetoric.
What we also need to keep in mind is that, while it can be a positive pursuit to encourage political engagement, such engagement should never be forced. As much as we might like to pretend otherwise, humans are fickle and contradictory creatures, and pushing too much towards any direction can make us seek another.
Instead, if we relate politics to existing positive hobbies and experiences which people have with the likes of betting and gaming, driving participation can be a much more realistic goal. Just remember to take your time, be patient, and never push somebody into something they’re uncomfortable with. Follow this path, and the chances for tomorrow to have a more positive political environment will be all the better for it.
