Journal article
The Social Origins of Authoritarianism
Political Research Quarterly, Vol.65(4), pp.703-713
12/2012
DOI: 10.1177/1065912911424287
Abstract
Despite much attention to the problematic consequences of authoritarianism, little research focuses on the causes of such unquestioning respect for “proper” authority. Elaborating on the social learning approach to authoritarianism, this article argues that economic inequality within countries shapes individuals’ feelings toward authority. As differences in condition increase, so does the relative power of the wealthy. As a result, regardless of their incomes, individuals’ experiences are more likely to lead them to view hierarchical relations as natural and, in turn, to hold greater respect for authority. Multilevel models of authoritarianism in countries around the world over three decades support this relative power theory.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- The Social Origins of Authoritarianism
- Creators
- Frederick Solt
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Political Research Quarterly, Vol.65(4), pp.703-713
- Publisher
- SAGE Publications; Los Angeles, CA
- DOI
- 10.1177/1065912911424287
- ISSN
- 1065-9129
- eISSN
- 1938-274X
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 12/2012
- Academic Unit
- Political Science
- Record Identifier
- 9983989280402771
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