Fighting Unreason with Reason
Welcome back to Fighting Unreason with Reason. In this issue, I discuss how examining direct marketing tactics could help alleviate our nation’s gun issues. I’ll also share some exciting news about my book, and why January 6th just won’t die.
A quick note: This will be the last newsletter issue for the summer. I’ll be taking some time off to travel, and I’ll be back in the fall! I will, however, still be periodically updating my Substack with thoughts and articles. Please forward this newsletter to those in your circle you think might be interested.
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FINDING REASON IN UNREASONABLE TIMES: Mass Shootings in the Age of Direct Marketing
For most of my professional life, I led companies and brands in direct marketing—the art and science of communicating the benefits of products directly to consumers. Most recently, I was the CEO of proactiv, the historical champion of the direct marketing of acne products.
But there’s a disturbing trend growing among gun manufacturers: they’re embracing the art and science of direct marketing to teens. Could this be leading to more mass shootings perpetrated by legal gun owners under 21?
In my most recent article, I suggest that regulating this advertising in a similar manner to other products could help to fix our nation’s gun epidemic.
THE ROAD TO REASON
I have big news! The 2022 International Book Awards were announced last month, and I am honored to say that my book, American Schism, was selected as a winner in the General Nonfiction category and a finalist for all new Nonfiction!
Writing this book was a daunting task, but I was steadfast in my desire to understand why our country is so divided—and how our past could act as a salve for our current wounds.
Since the book came out, it has truly been an amazing journey, and I thank everyone who has helped me on my mission to Fight Unreason With Reason!
You can see the full list of winners here.
The premise of a democracy is that it’s important to listen to other points of view. But as I shared with Karen Jagoda on the Digital Politics podcast, people are living in an echo chamber—whether through cable news or what’s happening in the digisphere.
Listen to the full interview here.
NOTES FROM THE EXHAUSTED MAJORITY
If you thought the Jan 6 insurrection of the Capitol was just going to fade into history, think again. Based on just a handful of hearings from the Jan. 6 committee, it’s clear this was no peaceful demonstration gone wrong, but an intricately coordinated event that began almost as soon as President Joe Biden’s victory was announced.
The New York Times has done an incredible job of providing live updates for the hearings, and I’ve been following closely. I really thought Jan 6 would be our “rock bottom” moment that would push us toward change, but it’s just become another situation where the truth has been suppressed.
Another point worth thinking about: The 14th Amendment prohibits insurrectionists from serving in federal or state office. It was adopted during reconstruction, when former Confederate officers were trying to get their jobs back.
Does this apply to those in Congress who actively supported the Jan 6 insurrection? According to the U.S. Court of Appeals, who barred former North Carolina Congressman Madison Cawthorn from public service because of his involvement with Jan 6. Will others follow suit?
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If you haven’t yet picked up a copy of American Schism: How the Two Enlightenments Hold the Secret to Healing Our Nation, order a copy on Amazon. Be sure to leave a review and let me know what you think.
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Finally, I would love to hear from you, so email me your thoughts, ideas, and feedback at sradwell@SethDavidRadwell.com.