How Voter Support for Authoritarianism Is Linked to Political Anomie

A tall man walking towards the light, followed by other people.

Our study, conducted alongside my colleagues provides intriguing insights into this phenomenon. We discovered that voters are often drawn to authoritarian leaders because of the feeling that the political world is confusing, unpredictable, and meaningless. This feeling is fueled by the perception that one cannot exert control over political processes or outcomes. All of this is related to perceptions of anomie; the perception that the normative structure of society, i.e., its social fabric and leadership, is breaking down.

Interestingly, this theme of anomie was central to the campaigns of both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. On her website, Harris emphasized the stakes in her fight for freedom, highlighting that "many fundamental freedoms are at stake," particularly "the freedom that unlocks all the others: the freedom to vote." Similarly, Trump pointed to the anomic state of the US, pledging to dismantle the "deep state" and eradicate the "rot and corruption of Washington D.C."

Our findings suggest that people gravitate towards authoritarianism as a psychological coping mechanism. Authoritarian leaders offer promises of order, structure, and clarity, providing a moral framework and strong leadership. These elements reduce uncertainty about the future, prompting individuals to trade some freedoms for the perceived benefits of stability and predictability.

This insight challenges the notion that authoritarianism appeals solely due to political powerlessness, highlighting a deeper psychological need for order and meaning. This has significant implications for policymakers, suggesting that addressing societal uncertainty requires clear communication and explanation of political actions, along with emphasizing guiding values. Confident political rhetoric can reduce authoritarian appeal, while openness about uncertainties can empower individuals, potentially weakening support for authoritarian regimes. This perspective is particularly relevant when considering leaders like German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who is often criticized for communicating too little. In the face of complex challenges, Scholz's reserved communication style may inadvertently contribute to a sense of uncertainty among citizens. Without sufficient clarity and guidance from leadership, the public may feel adrift, potentially fostering an environment where authoritarian alternatives appear more attractive. By enhancing transparency and offering value-driven leadership, leaders can strengthen democracy, build trust, and guide society toward stability and hope.

Full Paper:

Neerdaels, J., Teymoori, A., Tröster, C., & Van Quaquebeke, N. (accepted). When Lack of Control Leads to Uncertainty: Explaining the Effect of Anomie on Support for Authoritarianism. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology.

Prof. Christian Tröster, PhD

Prof. Dr. Christian Tröster, PhD, is a Professor of Leadership and Organizational Behavior at KLU. His research focuses on leadership, social networks, and team dynamics, with a special interest in intercultural communication and organizational motivation. Tröster has contributed to several top journals and serves as associate editor of the Academy of Management Journal, teaching both students and executives worldwide.

Published on 8 November 2024 by Prof. Christian Troester