An Experimental Approach to Determinants of Rural Resentment

• In Event: New Approaches to Measurement and Conceptualization

Abstract

Resentment is defined as the sense of unfairness and indignation felt by individuals when comparing their circumstances to those of others. This emotional state has been linked to the support for far-right parties among rural voters in Western democracies (Cramer, 2016; Mamonova and Franquesa, 2020; Rickardsson, 2021. . .). One of the most significant cases is that of Spain and the increase of the vote in rural areas for VOX. However, the specific factors that trigger the so-called Rural Resentment remain unclear.

This paper aims to investigate the efficacy of economic issues and cultural values in the activation of Rural Resentment among citizens. A novel survey experiment conducted in rural and urban areas of Spain will be used to disentangle the psychological mechanisms behind this feeling of resentment. Uncovering the mechanisms that activate this feeling and analyzing its variations among voters will allow us to shed light on the implications it holds for voting behavior. Contributing to the literature on political psychology, the anticipated findings are poised to enhance our understanding of the activation of rural resentment and pave the way for addressing its impact on the support for far-right political parties across Europe.

Authors

• Rebeca Gonzalez Antuña, European University Institute

• Sílvia Claveria, Carlos III University