Episode #1020
Escalating Pressure Campaigning with Craig Dalzell
Making Campaigns Count: The Science of Effective Activism What separates a campaign that changes the world from one that fades into obscurity? In this episode, Fiona and Marlene are joined by returning guest Dr Craig Dalzell from the think tank Commonweal to explore the research-backed principles of effective activism and civil resistance. Drawing on the groundbreaking work of academics like Erica Chenoweth and Gene Sharp, we dive deep into what actually works—and what doesn't—when organizing for change. Why do some campaigns achieve their goals while others struggle to gain traction? What's the difference between activism that captures hearts and minds versus campaigns that peter out? In this episode, we: Examine planning and organizing methods used by successful movements, what they did right and where campaigns went wrong. We also explore the powerful potential of civil resistance and strategic disobedience and discover how to sharpen our campaigning focus for maximum impact. Key chapters: 00:02:11 Core principles for escalating pressure 00:12:32 4 key steps for effective campaign planning 00:18:47 Options for organisational structures 00:26:02 The role of devolved governments 00:30:04 Re-designing events to increase pressure 00:32:53 Civil obedience/disobedience and resistance tactics 00:43:36 Contrasting the tactics of the far right 00:45:43 Further resources and information 00:50:37 Some ideas to get started Commonweal are planning to update their excellent handbook "How to Start A New Country" Craig and Common Weal wish to thank the Scottish Independence Fund ( https://sif.scot ) for their generous support of the project. Commonweal will also shortly launch a Crowdfunder - details will be added here when available. You can also make a regular donation to support all their work here https://www.commonweal.scot/donate The Indypodcasters team produce a NEW podcast episode every Friday search for Scottish Independence Podcasts wherever you get your podcasts. Remember to like and subscribe! Get in touch: Email: indypodcasters@gmail.com Bluesky: @scottishindypod Visit our website https://scottishindypod.scot for blogposts, newsletter signup and more episodes Subscribe for free to our Youtube channel @scottishindypodExtra for more of our video footage and clips. Video premieres most Tuesdays at 8pm We're also on TikTok : scotindypodcasters If you've enjoyed this podcast you might like to buy us a coffee? https://ko-fi.com/scottishindependencepodcasts or choose us as your Easyfundraising good cause. Music: Inspired by Kevin MacLeod Scottish Independence Podcasts is pro independence but not party political. Opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily represent our views.
