/// Photo Mia Cathryn Randøy Chamberlain: Isabel Huse / Photo Ole Jacob Madsen: Tor Stenersen.

Abstract

The influence of radical protests on public attitudes towards social movement actors and issues remains a critical inquiry. This systematic literature review examines the empirical evidence regarding radical effects. The analysis reveals that positive radical flank effects are frequent, though negative effects also occur, especially when protests involve violent tactics. The findings suggest that the clear distinction of moderate factions from radical ones may mitigate negative associations. Importantly, the presence of radical factions does not inherently pose a problem for social movements. Utilizing the elaboration likelihood model of attitude change, we propose cognitive elaboration as a potential mechanism through which radical flank effects manifest. Future research should aim to replicate studies examining nonviolent radical tactics, such as sabotage, perform meta-analyses to aggregate effects, and explore variations in radical flank effects across different political issues.

Les mer «Rebels With a Cause: Public Attitudes on Radical Protest Actions / A Review of Empirical Evidence of Radical Flank Effects // Mia Cathryn Randøy Chamberlain & Ole Jacob Madsen» →