I think there’s an insight from AA that would be useful in American democracy advocacy — rely on attraction not promotion.
I’ve been watching a bunch of journalists and Middle East experts proclaim that America has vital interests in Syria, and I’m suspecting that these individuals have vital interests promoting perspectives on Syria that are contradictory to American interests.
Imagine you’ve spent your adult life specializing in Syria and now is your moment to go on CNN or to publish in the New York Times about how important Syria is. Your personal interests and the national interests are contradictory. On the face of it, America has not vital interests in Syria, but the more dramatic and important you can present the situation in Syria, the more you can advance your interests as a journalist and Middle East expert.
Imagine how exciting it must be to play the great game of geo-politics when compared to the humdrum task of focusing on American welfare.
If you are not a member of AA, AA won’t take your money. Even if you do identify as an alcoholic, AA limits how much money you can give (no more than about $2,000 a year) lest ego interfere with the best functioning of the group.
Instead of intervening all over the world to promote democracy, American interests would be better served by a policy of attraction not promotion.
Why does America stick its beak all over God’s little green acre? Because it can. It has no worries in its own sphere.
What type of men have affairs? Those men who can. Which men are least likely to commit adultery? Those men with the fewest options to commit adultery.
When men have the opportunity to promote themselves, they usually will, even if comes at the cost of the general welfare.
The principle of “attraction, not promotion” has been a foundational tenet guiding Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) since its inception. This principle emphasizes AA’s inherent value and effectiveness, drawing individuals seeking help through the power of personal testimony and genuine connection. This principle has played a critical role in AA’s success and provides concrete examples of its application within AA groups.
The Historical Roots of “Attraction, Not Promotion”
The principle of attraction over promotion was born from lessons from the Washingtonian Society, a 19th-century temperance organization. Founded in 1840, the Washingtonians initially experienced rapid growth by focusing on one drunk talking to another, a model similar to AA. However, they eventually expanded their mission to include various social reform causes, from temperance to prison reform and even political advocacy. This shift diluted their focus, leading to internal divisions and eventual downfall.
Bill Wilson, cofounder of AA, was acutely aware of the Washingtonians’ history. He recognized that for AA to succeed, it needed to maintain a single-minded focus: helping alcoholics achieve sobriety through mutual support. Wilson also realized that alcoholics often resist being told what to do, rebelling against authoritative or prescriptive approaches. Instead, he saw the power of sharing personal experiences-what worked and what didn’t-in fostering genuine connections and promoting sobriety…
The Risks of Ignoring “Attraction, Not Promotion”
Ignoring the principle of “attraction, not promotion” can have detrimental effects on AA groups, old-timers, and newcomers. Groups have dissolved because they have gotten away from this principle. Here are some potential pitfalls:1. Ignoring Group Unity:
Problem: Allowing individual rights to trump group welfare and unity.
Consequence: This can create conflicts and divisions within the group, undermining its effectiveness and cohesion. The focus must remain on collective well-being, ensuring a supportive environment.
Question for Your Group: Are you doing everything possible to enhance the group’s welfare instead of getting your way?
2. Focusing on Outside Issues:
Problem: Discussing outside issues such as politics, religion, and non-conference-approved literature during meetings.
Consequence: Such discussions can alienate newcomers who may feel compelled to adopt certain beliefs or affiliations. It is crucial that no one feels pressured to study the Bible, profess any religious beliefs, or belong to any political party. AA’s strength lies in its singular focus on recovery from alcoholism.
Question for Your Group: Does your group address outside issues in meetings when they come up?
3. Threatening Activities:
Problem: Allowing behaviors that some perceive as an unsafe environment, such as inappropriate language, sexual advances, or threatening behavior.
Consequence: Such activities can make members uncomfortable and unsafe, driving them away. Establishing a sense of safety is paramount to ensuring that everyone feels welcome and supported.
Question for Your Group: Does your group address threatening behaviors and resolve following the 12 traditions?
4. Aggressive Recruitment Tactics:
Problem: Directly approaching individuals in public spaces to recruit them to AA.
Consequence: This can make people feel uncomfortable and pressured, negatively impacting the group’s reputation. People may perceive the group as pushy or invasive, driving potential members away.
Question for Your Group: Does your group recruit alcoholics before they’re ready?
5. Celebrity Endorsements:
Problem: Using celebrities to endorse AA publicly. Generally, this can be done by posting celebrity quotes or videos to social media or other publicity methods.
Consequence: Such endorsements can create a perception of AA as a branded entity rather than a support group, potentially alienating those seeking genuine help. It shifts the focus from mutual support to image management.
Question for Your Group: Does your group use celebrity endorsements to enhance the AA status?
6. Public Fundraising Events:
Problem: Hosting large public fundraisers for the group.
Consequence: This shifts the focus from mutual support to financial goals, distracting from AA’s primary purpose and potentially eroding trust. Members may feel the group is more interested in money than helping people. Plus, there is an obvious issue with anonymity when participating in public gatherings.
Question for Your Group: Does your group rely on outside public fundraisers and donations?
7. Compromising Anonymity:
Problem: Failing to maintain the anonymity of members by sharing names or personal details publicly.
Consequence: Breaching anonymity can destroy trust and make members feel unsafe, decreasing participation. Anonymity is crucial in maintaining a safe space for members.
Question for Your Group: Does your group protect individual anonymity in public spaces?
The principle of “attraction, not promotion” is vital for Alcoholics Anonymous’s success and integrity because it fosters a welcoming, anonymous, and supportive environment that appeals to both newcomers and long-time members. This approach naturally draws individuals seeking help without the need for aggressive promotion. By focusing on personal connections and genuine support, AA creates a safe space where members feel valued and respected, encouraging continued participation and engagement.Bill Wilson’s early insights and the historical lessons from the Washingtonians highlight the importance of maintaining a singular focus on mutual support and recovery. Adhering to this principle ensures that AA groups stay true to their mission, providing a safe and effective space for everyone in need, from those just beginning their journey to those who have been in recovery for many years.
