The Lake Worth Player of the Year

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“Ridicule Is Man’s Most Potent Weapon. ... The Threat Is Generally More Terrifying Than The Thing Itself." ~ Saul Alinsky

The above was Alinsky's ninth rule from his 1971 book, "Rules for Radicals." Alinsky died in 1972 and began his career as a community organizer in Chicago. Hello... Obama. I bought the book last year written by the super left-winger. There are points to learn in this book, not just for anarchists, but right-wing conservatives as well. Afterall, to win at a game, you need to understand the tactics of the enemy and be able to counter those same tactics. In Maxwell's case, anyone who does not think like he does, is the enemy.

Alinsky's lesson is not to be taken lightly. Ridicule, or the threat of ridicule, can be even more intimidating than the threat of physical violence or loss of livelihood. It is another form of bullying and this happens frequently from a few involved in the politics in our city. It is done to quiet the opponent from making a sensible point that differs from yours and to bring about change that you want. It can also be humorous and witty and the top wit here in Lake Worth is the Vice Mayor, hands down. At times he is not just witty but down right (rhyme it with witty).

As Alinksy said, such tactics aren't just cute; they can be useful in driving your opponent(s) up the wall. Very often the most ridiculous tactic can prove the most effective."

Scott Maxwell is the commissioner on the dais who, without even realizing it, excels at Rules for Radicals. He is the anarchist there. He is not a left-winger and admits to being a conservative--loves his country first and foremost and has convinced himself that he is selfless in that regard. He has definitely learned how to play the political game. White is black and black is white depending upon the moment.

He often makes his points with one line zingers that carry a big sting and his constant hammering on points have resulted in big change in Lake Worth, i.e., the city manager, Zoning in Progress, the Planning & Zoning board and now a Citizens Utility Advisory Board. He is a master at twisting what's right and wrong on issues. He understands Alinsky when the writer says, "One's concerns with the ethics of means and ends varies inversely with ones personal interest in the issue." He has learned the thirteenth rule: Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it. He has converted some ardent followers who use these tactics during public commentary or who hit hard on this blog.

Last night he used all the Alinsky tactics and then some. He is, without a doubt, the Lake Worth Player of the Year.

"If you push a negative hard and deep enough, it will break through to its counterside." Reading this book is a must for all those who enjoy the political game and want to win the point. Maxwell doesn't have to read it. It all comes naturally.