Plebnosis

Plebnosis
noun /ˈplɛb.nə.sɪs/

1. The art or practice of persuading the general populace (often referred to pejoratively as "plebs") to support a candidate, party, or political cause, particularly through rhetoric and strategies that appeal to their interests, emotions, or common sensibilities.
2. A technique employed by politicians and political campaigners to garner votes by connecting with the average voter's concerns, hopes, and desires, often using populist messages or policies.
Steven: Have you noticed how effective politicians have become at reaching out to the pleb? It's like they've mastered a whole new level of campaigning.

John: Oh, absolutely. It's all about plebnosis. They know exactly what to say to resonate with the common man's worries and aspirations.
by plebbed March 11, 2024
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Plebonomics

Plebonomics
noun /ˌplɛb.əˈnɒ.mɪks/

1. A political strategy focused on gaining the support of the general populace (plebs) by promising economic benefits that are often superficial, trivial, or not feasible in the long term. Such promises are usually designed to appeal directly to the immediate desires or needs of the common people, rather than offering sustainable solutions to economic issues.
2. The practice of proposing populist economic policies during election campaigns that are perceived as pandering to the base instincts of voters, rather than being based on sound economic principles. These policies are often criticized for being short-term fixes or gimmicks rather than substantive economic reforms.

Usage:

The party's latest promise of reducing the tax on everyday items was dismissed by critics as plebonomics, arguing it was a superficial attempt to win votes rather than a viable economic policy.

In the run-up to the elections, several candidates engaged in plebonomics, offering immediate but unsustainable financial incentives to sway the electorate.

Derivation:

Coined from "pleb," referring to the common people, and "economics," indicating the field of economic policies and strategies. The term implies a cynical use of economic promises to manipulate or appeal to the broad base of voters without offering genuine or long-term economic benefits.
Chris: Right. We need real solutions, not just economic sweeteners.

Jordan: Agreed. But as long as plebonomics wins votes, I doubt we'll see a change in strategy anytime soon.
by plebbed March 11, 2024
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