Overton Window - the window of acceptable Public opinion

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The Overton window, also known as the window of discourse, is the range of ideas the public will accept. 

 An idea's political viability depends mainly on whether it falls within the window, rather than on politicians' individual preferences. 

 According to Overton's description, his window includes a range of policies considered politically acceptable in the current climate of public opinion, which a politician can recommend without being considered too extreme to gain or keep public office. src Wiki.







Img src Chuck Scoggins

 In recent times, Donald Trump in his Election campaign has with his Vitriol has moved the Overton window on what's acceptable in Political discourse. However, with his popularity soaring, Donald Trump may have inadvertently identified the position of the Overton window in the minds of the Public. 

 Lawmakers who support policies outside the window are one of two kinds — true leaders who have the rare ability to shift the window by themselves, or politicians who risk electoral defeat because they are perceived as out of touch.

 An example of shifting Overton window is how same sex marriage was opposed a few decades ago by the Public, however a few dared to stand up for it and over time have managed to gain acceptability among the masses.

 The Overton Window explained



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