Lakoff Theory Policy Analysis

Apply George Lakoff’s theory to one political issue and explain why both liberals and conservatives would be for or against a policy preference. You must first explain the family dynamics in both the Strict Father and Nurturant Parent models (explain in detail how the models work), then list, explain, and apply at least FOUR metaphors (Examples: Moral Order, Moral Nurturance, Moral Empathy and so on…) from each model (Strict Father & Nurturant Parent)  to the issue position. For example, if you chose single-payer healthcare or Medicare-For-All as your issue, you will need to explain why  a conservative would be opposed to or in favor of such a policy and then explain a liberal’s opposition or preference for such a policy .

Steps:

1. Read Moral Politics Article

2. Watch Moral Politics lecture

3. Watch Lakoff’s lecture on Moral Politics https://www.c-span.org/video/?190817-1/dont-elepha…

4. Watch Lakoff lecture 

5. Pick any issue that interests you (same-sex marriage, gun rights, healthcare, wearing masks during Covid-19, January 6th Capitol Insurrection, etc.)

6. Start your paper and discuss immediately how the Strict Father and Nurturant Parent models work. What are the dynamics in the family and outside world? This should be detailed and consistent with the lectures and reading (Moral Politics).

7. Provide a discussion of your issue. For example, if you choose income taxes you should provide a concise paragraph discussing briefly the history of the income tax, substantive changes, and the current policy. 

8. Apply the models to your issue and explain why Strict Father (conservatives) and Nurturant Parent (liberals) would be in favor of or opposed to your issue position. Remember the parents represent the government and children represent the people or citizens. 

9. Pick four metaphors that inform the conservative position from the metaphors in the Strict Father model (Moral Order, Moral Strength, Moral Self-interest, etc.)

10. Pick four metaphors that inform the liberal position from the metaphors in the Nurturant Parent model (Moral Empathy, Moral Social Nurturance, Moral Fair Distribution, etc.) 

11. Be sure to explain and describe in detail  each metaphor you choose and explain how they apply to the issue position of the liberal or conservative. You will do this a total of eight times for eight metaphors. For example, Moral Empathy requires you to feel what others feel, so a liberal might be in favor of same-sex marriage because it wouldn’t feel nice not to be able to marry your life partner. 

12. Be sure to fully describe the models, metaphors, and apply them in detail. This is your opportunity to showcase your understanding of Lakoff’s theory.