Arlie Hochschild, Professor Emerita of Sociology at UC Berkeley, discusses the emotional landscape of Trump's supporters, focusing on fears of empathy among the left. She explores how economic decline has affected pride in working-class communities and the complexities of political identity in rural America. Hochschild dives into the narratives shaping Latino voters' unexpected support for Trump, revealing deeper motivations and the interplay of individual versus collective pride that influences political alignment.
Empathy is essential for bridging political divides, yet many struggle to engage with their own communities due to fear of compromising beliefs.
The emotional narratives surrounding pride and loss in white working-class communities significantly influence political allegiance, particularly towards charismatic leaders like Trump.
Deep dives
The Value of Empathy in Understanding Political Differences
People often struggle to empathize with fellow citizens who hold different political views, fearing that understanding them may compromise their own beliefs. This resistance to empathy is particularly evident among academics who readily explore foreign cultures but neglect their own society's divisions. The importance of engaging deeply with local communities is emphasized, highlighting that such efforts can foster a greater understanding of the emotions and circumstances that shape political sentiments. By cultivating empathy, individuals can recognize the shared humanity in others, even those with whom they profoundly disagree.
Pride and Shame in the Political Landscape
The relationship between personal pride and political allegiance is explored, focusing on how feelings of loss and shame can fuel support for right-wing movements. In communities like Pike County, Kentucky, individuals who once derived pride from stable jobs in coal mining experience a ‘pride paradox’ as those jobs disappear. This loss leads to a complex emotional narrative where individuals oscillate between blaming external structures for their circumstances and internalizing shame for their perceived failures. A charismatic leader may then rise, promising to restore their pride and address their feelings of victimization, resonating deeply with their emotional struggles.
Charismatic Leadership and Emotional Narratives
The concept of charismatic leadership is dissected, showing how leaders like Donald Trump effectively tap into the emotions of their supporters. Trump’s ability to articulate feelings of shame and loss allows him to connect with individuals who feel marginalized, turning their narrative of victimhood into a rallying cry for retribution. Through a series of emotional moments—provocative statements, subsequent media shaming, and a comeback narrative—Trump illustrates the ‘lightning in a jar’ phenomenon, where supporters feel empowered by his transgressive allure. This emotional resonance often overshadows traditional political discourse, creating a compelling impetus for loyalty among his base.
Understanding the Appeal to Diverse Voter Demographics
The changing dynamics of voter support, particularly among minority communities, are addressed in light of growing support for Trump in the 2024 election. While examining Latino voters in Miami, it is suggested that many individuals are moving toward a pragmatic support for leaders who promise to address their concerns, even when they don't fully align with their values. This shift indicates a complex relationship where some voters previously aligned with progressive ideals become disillusioned and seek alternative narratives of empowerment. The need for deeper research into these shifts is emphasized, as understanding these dynamics is crucial for comprehending the evolving political landscape.
Arlie Hochschild is an author and professor emerita of sociology at the University of California, Berkeley. Her books include Stolen Pride: Loss, Shame, and the Rise of the Right and Strangers in Their Own Land: Anger and Mourning on the American Right.
In this week’s conversation, Yascha Mounk and Arlie Hochschild discuss the fear of empathy among the American left, the impact of the loss of pride among white working class communities, and how to understand the deep story of Latinos who voted for Trump in 2024.