The one thing I disagree with about this otherwise outstanding comment is the use of words like “socialism” and “communism”. I never start by saying these things, but once I’ve gotten to the point that the other person a. knows what my general economic philosophy is b. knows that I hate both parties openly and c. knows that I am friendly, I will slip socialism into conversation without drawing any attention to it. When they ask questions about why, I fill them in on what socialism, communism, Marxism etc. mean. Usually by this point I’ve already told them they could be making more money and have more control over their work life, so calling that socialism admittedly scares them a little but also excites them a lot. I’ve found this is even easier at union shops (though I’ve only worked at one), as the workers there are already at least somewhat primed to see themselves in contradistinction to management. Most people are really eager to learn about this stuff once they realize there is benefit to them involved. As much as people in this country are taught to hate communism, they are never taught what communism is outside of “big government controlling the economy,” so explaining the concept first and giving it a name later works very well. The other thing to consider is that if you get someone on board with the ideas but they find out from someone else that these are socialism/communism, they may feel tricked and not trust you any further.