Populism and Support for Democracy: Divergent Beliefs of Populist Supporters

• In Event: Explaining Voters' Support for Populism

Abstract

This research offers an essential analysis of the complex interplay between populism and democratic values, highlighting the varied democratic beliefs of populist supporters. Utilizing data from the World Value Survey, covering waves 3 through 7 (1995-2022), it uncovers a significant correlation between the support for guardianship or illiberal democracy and voting for populist parties globally. This finding is crucial in the current political climate where the rise of populist parties and leaders has triggered intense debates and concerns about the resilience and evolution of democratic systems worldwide.

One of the pivotal aspects of this study is its examination of how individual perceptions of crises affect the relationship between populism and democratic support. This aspect is vital for understanding the contemporary political landscape, as the research indicates that the inclination towards populist ideologies and authoritarian democratic structures is not uniform but varies according to the perceived severity of societal, economic, and political crises. This suggests that support for populist parties transcends ideological leanings and is significantly influenced by context and perceived threats, highlighting the need for nuanced policy responses to populist movements.

Furthermore, the study delves into how populist supporters perceive democracy, addressing a critical gap in our understanding of political behavior. It explores whether their support is rooted in dissatisfaction with current democratic systems, a preference for more direct democracy, or a leaning towards authoritarianism under the guise of democratic reform (Donovan 2019, 2021; Rooduijn 2014). This exploration is vital for comprehensively understanding the motivations behind populist support and its potential impact on democratic processes, thus informing policy and academic discourse.

The implications of these findings are profound for the ongoing debate on the health and trajectory of democracies globally. By illuminating the diverse democratic beliefs of populist supporters and the factors shaping these beliefs, the study offers a more layered understanding of populism, challenging the oversimplified view of populism as inherently anti-democratic. This nuanced perspective is crucial for developing targeted strategies to address the rise of populism and safeguard democratic institutions and values.

In conclusion, this study provides not only empirical evidence of the link between populism and support for authoritarian democracy but also paves the way for further research into the dynamic interplay of populism, perceived crises, and democratic beliefs. This approach is essential for effectively navigating the complex challenges posed by the rising tide of populism and its implications for democracies around the world.

Authors

• JEONGHO CHOI, The University of iowa

• Yujin Julia Jung, Mount St. Mary's University