Omar Bennett
Politics can be a stressful topic, with many people experiencing politically-induced stress and anxiety. However, staying informed about political developments is important for citizens. To keep up with politics without feeling overwhelmed, you can limit your sources to a few respected publications and informative podcasts, and focus on topics that interest you.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Read up on topics you are interested in | Women's rights |
| Listen to podcasts | Up First |
| Subscribe to respected publications | Washington Post, Slate, National Review |
| Use social media to your advantage | Switch from Twitter to Reddit to curate your news feed better |
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What You'll Learn
Read up on topics you're interested in
Reading up on topics you're interested in is a great way to stay politically informed without feeling overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Start with a Topic That Interests You
Begin with a subject that piques your curiosity, such as women's rights or environmental policies. This will make the process more enjoyable and engaging. For instance, if you're passionate about women's rights, you might want to delve into the works of influential female politicians or activists.
Find Reliable Sources
Seek out reputable sources that offer insightful analysis and information. This could include books, articles, podcasts, or online platforms known for their political content. For example, you could follow respected political journalists or thinkers on social media to get regular updates and insights.
Understand the Basics
Before diving into complex political theories or ideologies, ensure you grasp the fundamentals of politics and government in your country. Understand the structure of your government, the roles of key institutions, and the legislative process. This groundwork will help you better comprehend and contextualize the topics you explore.
Identify Key Terms and Persons
As you read, take note of any key terms or names mentioned. Make a list of these terms and persons, and dedicate some time to further research them. Consult dictionaries, encyclopedias, or online resources to gain a deeper understanding of these concepts and their significance. This will enhance your political vocabulary and comprehension.
Recognize Contrasts and Turning Points
Political science authors often build upon or contrast their work with that of other scholars. Pay attention to these contrasts, as they can help you identify the unique contributions and perspectives of the author you're reading. Additionally, look out for turning points or concluding statements, as these highlight the weighty ideas and lessons within the text.
Engage with Different Media
Variety in your learning methods can keep things interesting. In addition to reading, consider incorporating other media, such as podcasts, videos, or online courses. For example, the Khan Academy platform offers readings, videos, and quizzes on various political topics, allowing you to track your progress and stay motivated.
Remember, staying politically informed is a continuous journey, and it's okay to start small. Choose topics that resonate with you and gradually expand your knowledge. Before you know it, you'll be engaging in fascinating political discussions and forming well-informed opinions.
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Listen to political podcasts
Podcasts are a great way to keep up with politics. They are often free, easily accessible, and can be listened to at any time. With a variety of podcasts to choose from, you can gain access to detailed and nuanced information relating to current affairs and political issues. Here are some podcasts you can listen to:
The NPR Politics Podcast
The NPR Politics Podcast offers a subscription service called NPR Politics Podcast+ which provides sponsor-free listening and additional content from the NPR Politics team. The podcast falls in the center of the AllSides Media Bias Chart, making it a good source of objective political reporting.
The Run-Up
Hosted by Astead Herndon, a national politics reporter for The New York Times, this podcast explores the key ideas and issues shaping the US elections. It features thought-provoking conversations with colleagues, newsmakers, and voters across the country, providing insightful analysis on the current state of American politics.
Pod Save America
This no-nonsense political podcast is hosted by former aides to US President Barack Obama and is part of the Crooked Media network. It offers a unique insider's perspective on political events and analyses of the most recent news stories. The podcast often features special guests, including celebrated journalists, politicians, and activists.
The Story
The Story is a great choice if you want to understand how society is shaped by politics. It covers a wide variety of topics and provides listeners with insight into how everything fits together. It is hosted by Gary O'Donoghue, Charmaine Cozier, Audrey Brown, Tanya Beckett, and Emily Wither.
The Inquiry
The Inquiry is a great way to quickly get up to speed with a particular political topic. It focuses on one global story at a time, framed around a particular question, and is hosted by a roster of BBC journalists and various experts.
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Limit your news sources
Limiting your news sources is an effective way to keep up with politics without feeling overwhelmed. The 24-hour news cycle, social media, and smartphones have caused politics to invade our lives, leaving many people constantly on edge. It is important to be informed, but not at the expense of your mental health.
A good strategy is to select a few trusted news sources that provide a well-rounded perspective. This could include reputable news outlets, such as the Washington Post, as well as podcasts that offer nuanced discussions. For example, a podcast featuring two friends from different sides of the political spectrum can provide a balanced perspective. By limiting your sources, you can better manage your news intake and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
It is also beneficial to choose news sources that align with your interests. For instance, if you are passionate about women's rights, you can seek out sources that focus on this topic. This way, you can stay engaged with the topics that matter to you without getting bogged down by excessive information.
Additionally, it is essential to be mindful of your news consumption. Take breaks from the news and social media to detach and restore a sense of control. This can be achieved by finding positive ways to take action, such as campaigning for a candidate or participating in rallies. Remember, it is okay to step away and prioritize your well-being.
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Detach when you need to
It's important to stay informed about political issues, but it's equally important to take a step back and detach yourself from the constant news cycle when you need to. Here are some ways to do that:
Recognize the Impact on Your Mental Health
Being constantly engaged with political news can be overwhelming and negatively impact your mental health. Recognize the signs of burnout and take a break when needed. It's okay to disconnect for a while and focus on self-care.
Limit Your News Consumption
You don't need to consume political news 24/7. Set specific times to check the news, such as once a day or once a week. This way, you stay informed without being overwhelmed. You can also limit your news consumption by choosing specific topics that interest you and only following those, or by setting time limits for yourself when reading or watching political content.
Choose Your Sources Carefully
Not all news sources are created equal. Opt for neutral and reputable sources that provide factual information without bias. Biased or one-sided sources can contribute to a toxic narrative and increase your stress levels. Look for sources that offer nuanced perspectives and encourage thoughtful discussion.
Avoid Highly Partisan Communities
Online communities and social media platforms can often become echo chambers of partisan opinions. If you find yourself frequently engaging with political content on these platforms, consider taking a break or muting certain keywords or individuals. You can also unfollow or hide content from people who consistently post political content that you don't want to see.
Find Alternative Sources of Information
Podcasts, such as those hosted by individuals from different sides of the political spectrum, can offer a more nuanced and civil perspective. Look for sources that provide a summary of the top headlines, allowing you to stay informed without diving too deep into the political chaos.
Focus on Your Interests
Instead of solely focusing on political news, make sure to engage with content related to your hobbies and interests. This can help you maintain a sense of balance and perspective.
Remember, detaching from politics doesn't mean becoming completely disengaged. It's about finding a healthy balance between staying informed and preserving your mental well-being.
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Take action: campaign, rally, call
Taking action is a great way to get involved in politics and make your voice heard. Here are some ways you can take action:
Campaigning
Campaigning is a great way to actively support a political candidate or cause. You can join or start a campaign to raise awareness and support for an issue you care about. This could involve organising events, distributing information, or reaching out to potential supporters. Campaigns can be a powerful way to build momentum and create change.
Rallies and Protests
Attending or organising rallies and protests is a form of political expression that can bring attention to a cause. Rallies and protests are a way to physically demonstrate your support for an issue and can be a powerful way to influence policy-makers. They are also a great way to connect with like-minded individuals and build a sense of community.
Calling and Writing
Contacting your local, state, or national representatives is an effective way to make your voice heard. Writing letters or emails, or making phone calls, can directly reach politicians and express your concerns or support for specific issues. It is noted that receiving several letters on a single issue can prompt a politician to take action and address the matter. This is a simple yet powerful way to get involved in politics.
Petitions
Starting or signing a petition is another way to take political action. Petitions are a formal request for change, and they can be presented to politicians or decision-makers to demonstrate public support for an issue. They are a way to gather support and show the impact of a particular decision on the community.
Grassroots Campaigns
Grassroots campaigns are often organised by citizens in response to a specific issue. They can involve a variety of actions, such as mobilising citizens to join large-scale demonstrations, collecting signatures for petitions, or raising awareness through social media. Grassroots campaigns are a way for citizens to come together and create change from the bottom up.
Remember, taking political action can be challenging, and it's important to find what works best for you. Sustaining long-term engagement is easier when your actions align with your identity and values, and it can be helpful to get involved with friends or like-minded individuals. Taking action is a powerful way to make your voice heard and create the change you want to see.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to get the information you need and then detach. You can do this by limiting yourself to fewer sources and curating your news feed. Try to focus on topics that interest you and find a good source to read up on these. There are also podcasts that can provide a summary of the top political headlines.
It is important to take care of your mental health. Try to find positive ways to take action, such as campaigning for a chosen candidate or taking part in a political rally.
Try to limit your news intake and be mindful of your screen time. It is also important to be aware of misinformation and disinformation, especially around election time.
Try to restore a sense of control by unplugging and finding common ground in other areas of your life. It is important to remember that it is okay to have differing opinions and to respect each other's views.
