Scott Colvin takes us into a world of tribalism and riots...
I have a confession to make. I have been a member of the Conservative Party for many years. A bit like supporting a football team, I have stuck by them through thick and thin, regardless of whether I have disliked individual players or managers. In short, I am tribal.
So when I got round to writing my book, How to Use Politicians to Get What You Want, I wondered whether my loyalties would hinder the success of the book. Would the Left simply shun my collection of campaigning advice and wider analysis of the role of the modern politician?
I need not have worried. The book has been positively received by a range of left-wing writers, in Progress Magazine, the Daily Record, and Liberal Democrat Voice, to name but a few publications. There is even talk of a review in Tribune in the coming weeks.
Perhaps we need not be surprised. The tips contained in my book were never intended solely for the benefit of the good people of Tunbridge Wells or Windsor. I was always focused on providing a guide for those who have little political power or influence. If you want to campaign against the cuts, this book helps. But if you are an optimist and wish to explore the possibilities of the Big Society, then it also helps to navigate you through those waters too. It suits both positive and negative engagement as a consumer and in the community.
The thought which has crystallised in my mind, helped by some of the letters and emails from my readers, is that people take great satisfaction in fighting back and beating ‘the system’. That does not mean participating in May Day riots, and smashing windows. Rather, it is the small and medium stuff, such as getting a £50 refund from a credit card, or keeping the local post office open. It is a tragedy when we conclude that it is futile to bother participating in improving our communities, or to stand up for ourselves against unresponsive corporations. For a brief moment at least, it makes us feel empowered and imbues us with the courage to keep battling for our rights.
You don’t need special skills to play a role but my book should give you a few ideas to get started.
Scott Colvin's book, How to Use Politicians to Get What You Want is available now, priced £12.99