But there is value in using the enemy's terminology against them ;) The word "democracy" lights up areas of their brain that we want to influence. They pay attention if they hear "democracy". Soon as they see or hear the word "republic" or "Republican", they short out and shut off.
At that instant, all critical thinking activity involving logic and rational thought—to the extent that was occurring in the first place—immediately ceases, and their mind slams shut like a trapdoor.
They are very much programmed robots in this regard. Careful deployment of some of their preferred linguistic keys can unlock their mind and allow for some degree of deprogramming.
Right
But there is value in using the enemy's terminology against them ;) The word "democracy" lights up areas of their brain that we want to influence. They pay attention if they hear "democracy". Soon as they see or hear the word "republic" or "Republican", they short out and shut off.
At that instant, all critical thinking activity involving logic and rational thought—to the extent that was occurring in the first place—immediately ceases, and their mind slams shut like a trapdoor.
They are very much programmed robots in this regard. Careful deployment of some of their preferred linguistic keys can unlock their mind and allow for some degree of deprogramming.
/werdnerd
There may be something to that.
Noteworthy point:
"Democracy" can have multiples meanings: "This is a democracy" vs "This is democracy in action"
"Republic" does not enjoy the same plurality of meaning: "The USA is a republic" vs. "this is republic in action*"
If one considers that the attorney possibly used "democracy" in the second meaning, aka 'democratic principles', then her use would seem quite valid.