Intergroup Relations and Support for Democratization: Evidence from Hong Kong

• In Event: Protest, Democracy, and Autonomy: The Case of Hong Kong

Abstract

What motivates ordinary citizens to support pro-democracy movements? Conventional theories of democratization emphasize the mass's redistribution demands or political grievances against the elites. This article suggests a different motive based on inter-group relations, which can be exacerbated by the increasing flow of people and capital. We argue that as a pro-majoritarian institution, democracy may be sought after by members of the majority as a way to defend their interests and identity. We evaluate this argument by drawing evidence from Hong Kong, a city that has recently witnessed major waves of pro-democracy uprisings. Experimental studies on local university students reveal that priming the socioeconomic threat of the mainland Chinese causally increases one's support for democratization. Observational evidence from surveys and elections further shows that support for democracy is higher in localities more exposed to a substantial influx of mainland Chinese visitors. These findings highlight the powerful role of group-based sentiments in driving political transitions.

Authors

• Tak Huen Chau, UC Berkeley

• Junyan Jiang, Columbia University