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In the United States and around the world, political polarization and authoritarianism are becoming more prevalent and hampering democracy in concerning ways. What is the impact of partisanship on citizens' understanding of democracy and its implications for democratic erosion? A recent study sheds light on the fluid nature of citizens' take on democracy and its potential consequences for democratic governance. The researchers use cross-national survey data from 74 countries to analyze how citizens' understanding of democracy is influenced by their immediate partisan interests, and whether this can shape their support for anti-democratic actions.
The research finds that while citizens may express support for the idea of democracy, their preferences for more liberal (open-minded, tolerant) versus illiberal (closed-minded and rigid) forms of democracy can be influenced by their current political preferences. It found that citizens are more likely to view democracy in illiberal terms, like emphasizing the need for obeying authority, when their preferred political party was in power. This means that citizens may be more likely to support anti-democratic methods for imposing their preferred type of democracy if it aligns with their current partisan interests (e.g. support for a leader who does not bother with parliament and elections, or support for army rule).
This research has significant implications for pro-democracy stakeholders and activists. It suggests we exercise caution when interpreting citizens' responses to questions about democracy, as the meaning of democracy can fluctuate for individuals depending on their party’s current hold on power. Pro-democracy stakeholders should learn to voice why illiberal actions violate the core tenets of democracy, which may be more effective than simply calling for “defending democracy” as it may be understood to mean different things. This approach can help citizens protect democracy from falling apart and anchor us to a common definition of democracy - preventing democratic erosion.
Citation
Bryan, J. D. (2023). What Kind of Democracy Do We All Support? How Partisan Interest Impacts a Citizen’s Conceptualization of Democracy. Comparative Political Studies. https://doi.org/10.1177/00104140231152784