Behind the Curtain with Farrah Bostic

Understanding political contradictions - from voters supporting seemingly opposing candidates to holding conflicting policy views - reveals deeper truths about American democracy and the complex systems that shape public opinion. Modern polling methods, rooted in both the study of fascism and eugenics, illuminate how we make sense of each other as voters and consumers. 

In this episode of Cross Tabs, host Farrah Bostic unveils five key areas the show will tackle this season: deep dives into local political transformations, the historical evolution of polling and surveys, the shift of campaign messaging from Madison Avenue to K Street, lessons from history about how other countries built democracies after surviving and overcoming authoritarianism, and a look forward into what kinds of democracies can be built when we're not steeped in Constitutional nostalgia. Drawing on her background in political science, law, and market research, Farrah aims to help listeners understand the systems that drive political change and imagine new possibilities for democracy's future. 

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Resources 

‘On Freedom’ by Timothy Snyder 

‘How Rights Went Wrong’ by Jamal Greene  

‘Just Evil Enough’ by Emily Ross and Alistair Croll  

Behind the Bastards podcast hosted by Robert Evans

Your Host 

Farrah Bostic is the founder and Head of Research & Strategy at The Difference Engine, a strategic insights consultancy. With over 20 years of experience turning audience insights into effective strategies for B2B and B2C companies, Farrah helps business leaders make big decisions across various industries. Learn more at thedifferenceengine.co and connect with Farrah on LinkedIn.

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