Performative and Affective Elements of Geographic Polarization

• In Event: Urban-Rural Divides in Comparative Perspective

Abstract

Political, cultural, and social divisions between urban and rural America are pervasive, problematic, and growing. To what extent is affective geographic polarization (i.e., place-based animosity) genuine and to what extent is it performative? Previous research by Elizabeth C. Connors demonstrates that interactions among in-group members encourage exaggerated displays of affective polarization. Given that geographic contexts are, by definition, omnipresent in social interactions, it is of interest to political psychologists if location (urban/rural) exacerbates not only partisan affective polarization but geographic affective polarization as well. We probe this inquiry using a survey experiment that asks rural-identifying individuals if they wanted to impress/disappoint another ruralite, how they would rate different geographic groups (ruralites, suburbanites, and urbanites) and partisan groups (Democrats and Republicans). Social desirability of polarized affect, for both party and geography, may impinge on the ability of elected officials to forge compromise across different geographic constituencies.

Authors

• Kal Munis, Auburn University

• Zoe Nemerever, Auburn University