I learned about this term a couple weeks ago.
Political hobbyists keep up with the news, and are willing to form opinions, debate, and (perhaps) complain about what’s going on. And vote, of course.
But that’s the extent of their political involvement.
Their interest is not about activism. It’s about cheering for a side, and experiencing the highs and lows of winning or losing. Much like sports fans, they are spectators and not participants.
I don’t think there’s anything inherently wrong with being a political hobbyist. I would consider myself one, in fact. I’m just wondering if we’re like this because we don’t believe we can move the needle much.
It just seems like for anyone that cares about a political outcome, you can’t complain if you’re not willing to act.