Source Of Support For Authoritarians

Everyone likes and wants democracy, right? The apparent rise of authoritarianism suggests otherwise. Note the use of the word ‘most’ in this quote.

“…most people see representative democracy as a good way to govern their country,…” – Pew Research

‘Most’ may like democracy, but the margin gets slimmer as people get poorer.

“47% of those with incomes below the median in the United Kingdom support authoritarian systems, compared with 27% of those with incomes at or above the median.” – Pew Research

Considering statistical variations, it may not be a surprise, then, that poorer neighborhoods, municipalities, and countries can exceed 50% often enough for authoritarians to get elected into political positions. The study does not make the connection, but this may be a consequence of wealth and income inequality. If people do not see a system as supporting them, are they less likely to support it and more likely to support an authoritarian who appears to support them? (#speculation)

Ironically,

“…supporters of authoritarianism are much less likely than nonsupporters to offer any solution or idea in about half the countries polled.” – Pew Research

Of the respondents, there was no consensus on a solution, so that may limit the progression of authoritarianism.