Messaging Wealth Inequality and the Economic Crisis
An analysis of the language of economic inequality in our public discourse, with both tactical messaging and strategic policy implications.
Collaborators:
- Chuck Collins, Institute for Policy Studies
- Jim Carr, National Community Reinvestment Coalition
- Nathan Newman, Progressive States Network
- Juhu Thukral, Opportunity Agenda
RESOURCES
Under the leadership of Anat Shenker-Osorio, communications consultant, this project has produced several valuable resources for members of the community:
"Narrowing the Gap, Leveling the Field: How We Talk about Inequality," an in-depth report and cognitive linguistic analysis of the myriad challenges in communicating about inequality, with recommendations for improving our linguistic practices.
"Applying What We Know: What Previous Research on Taxation, Government and Wealth Can Teach Us About Messaging Inequality," a summary report of existing polling data, framing research, and messaging on the topic of inequality.
Two "cheat sheets," one on the barrier and gap models of inequality, and the other on the scale and vertigo models.
A one-page summary of all the models, which you can post for easy reference while you write about inequality!
INEQUALITY WRITERS GROUP
Many colleagues who have been exposed to this research express a desire to continue thinking about and improving their ability to frame inequality in their writings. To meet this need, we have formed an online writers group, where members submit short pieces of copy (their own or others') and exchange feedback and ideas. If you are interested in joining this group, contact us!
