Chapter 3: The Political Self

Politics exists in some form in most, if not all, human societies. Political behavior has even been observed in some nonhuman primates (de Waal, 2013). Intense attitudes and beliefs often form the basis for activism and collective action (Simon & Klandermans, 2001). Indeed, activism has made events such as the abolishment of slavery and outright segregation in some societies possible. Yet because activists tend to organize around a shared grievance, it appears to also possess a dark side—a need for a rival or “enemy” to spur collective action in pursuit of a political goal (Martin, Scully, & Levitt, 1990; Simon & Klandermans, 2001). In the political domain, the “enemy” appears to take at least two potential forms: an obstacle to achieving desired ends or, groups attempting to undo already achieved programs, policies, institutions, or practices. What is it about politics that generates such intensity and animosity? How can a social domain trigger such intense positive feelings and reactions while at the same time rely on what appears to be a foundation of negative feelings and reactions?