New psychological research has found that far-right narratives about societal breakdown could be contributing to increased support for authoritarian leaders such as US President Donald Trump. The study, published in the journal Political Psychology, analyzed data from over 2,000 American voters and found that individuals who regularly consumed far-right content were more likely to express favorable views toward authoritarian leadership.
Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, conducted the study as part of a broader investigation into how political messaging influences public opinion. They argue that far-right narratives often frame social unrest as a result of progressive policies, thereby justifying authoritarian measures as necessary to restore order. The study’s authors warn that these narratives could have long-term implications for democratic institutions in the United States.
The research has significant implications for understanding the political dynamics in the US and other democratic nations where far-right movements have gained traction. With growing concerns about social stability, the findings suggest that political discourse may increasingly be shaped by narratives that promote authoritarian leadership as a solution to perceived crises.