Table of Contents

Introduction: The Discursive Power of Movements Chapter One: Mainstream Discourse, Public Meaning, and the Political Character of Persuasion Chapter Two: A Tale of Two Movements- Living Wage Chapter Three: A Tale of Two Movements- Marriage Equality Chapter Four: The Discursive Architecture of Resonance Chapter Five: Political Acceptance and the Process of Political Change Chapter Six: From Marginal to Mainstream Conclusion: After Acceptance - the Tea Party, Occupy & Prospects for political transformation Appendix A Appendix B Bibliography

About the Author

Deva R. Woodly is Assistant Professor of Political Science, The New School

Reviews

"The Politics of Common Sense offers an intriguing example of theory building around the potential of social movements to influence political decision making in the US. Woodly (The New School) argues that movements ultimately compete in the arena of public discourse, and public discourse also represents a vital resource to mobilize. This thoughtful and insightful work is recommended for students of social movements and American public policy making."-D. R. Imig, University of Memphis "In this timely and engaging book, Deva Woodly offers a fascinating account of how 'bottom-up political change' occurs. The Politics of Common Sense is especially valuable because it theorizes the messy, contested terrain of discourse as a vital site of political activity."--Ella Myers, Theory & Event'