It's All in the Message

*I apologize for the late post! I submitted my blog entry last night and when I went to go check on it today, I saw that it wasn't posted—so I had to re-write it. *

A topic that has been reoccurring in different readings this week is messaging. In Collaboration, we read and discussed how social movements package their message to showcase their values. We also discussed how social movements, such as the environmental movement, may not be entirely successful because of its messaging. Currently, it seems as if the environmental movement has been focusing on a “doomsday” message, which can be a good one if it is meant to incite fear but does not entirely relate climate change to the values of a wider population. Similarly, using strictly scientific information in environmental messaging can isolate those who are not familiar with the jargon. To alleviate this issue, the environmental movement needs a bit of rebranding (in my opinion) in order to relate to all of those involved in the system.

In this week’s readings for Systems, we touched on different mechanisms within systems. In order for a system, such as the environmental movement, to be successful it must be understood that different parts constitute the whole. The environmental movement must simplify and streamline their goals, message and vision in order to appeal and reflect its audience. This will not only allow the environmental movement to gain more influence, but will also build resilience for the future.

Question: What are some key terms/phrases that you would use to “rebrand” the environmental movement?

Comments

[Sam Krasnobrod]

I like the "your mind on nature," campaign that Nat Geo is focusing on right now, and others have been working with for a while. It's fun, without the connotation of anything being inherently wrong with the nature that you're enjoying.