Eitan Hersh’s work argues that many citizens treat politics as a form of "political hobbyism"—consuming media for entertainment rather than engaging in effective, localized political action. The core argument advocates for moving beyond passive consumption to build real, relational power through local, organized efforts.
To actually apply the "politics is for power" framework: politics is for power pdf
Podcast Discussions: Listen to the author discuss the book's core message on The Ezra Klein Show. Eitan Hersh’s work argues that many citizens treat
In Politics Is for Power, Eitan Hersh argues that many citizens engage in "political hobbyism," treating news consumption and online debate as entertainment rather than practical political action. The book advocates shifting from this passive, emotional consumption to local, organized efforts aimed at building tangible power. Read a summary of the book at SoBrief. In Politics Is for Power , Eitan Hersh
So, find the PDF. Read it twice. Highlight the cruel parts. Argue with it. Then, close your laptop and go join a local political meeting. Shake a hand. Make an enemy. Build a coalition. That is what politics is for.
Politics Is for Power: Moving Beyond Hobbyism to Real Influence