In the heart of the United States, a storm is brewing. Violent populism is on the rise, and it’s threatening the very foundations of American democracy. Professor Robert Pape, director of the Chicago Project on Security and Threats (CPOST) has spent over five years researching this alarming trend. His latest book, Our Own Worst Enemies: America and the Age of Violent Populism offers a stark warning and a call to action.
Pape’s journey into this research began in April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns sparked a wave of anti-lockdown protests. The armed protesters storming the Michigan State House were a stark reminder of the potential for political violence. Then, the murder of George Floyd in ignited nationwide protests, further fueling Pape’s determination to understand the dynamics of political violence. The January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection was another pivotal moment, highlighting the mainstream nature of this violence.
The Normalization of Political Violence
The book is divided into two parts. The first part lays out the logic and evidence for violent populism, showing how it has become normalized across the political spectrum. Pape argues that the greatest threat to American democracy is not from extremists but from millions of ordinary citizens who believe political violence is justified. This phenomenon is not confined to one side of the political aisle; it’s a bipartisan issue.
Pape’s research reveals that demographic change and economic inequality are key factors driving this trend. These issues fracture society, fuel support for political violence, and undermine government legitimacy. The second part of the book delves into case studies, including the Black Lives Matter protests, campus unrest following the Gaza War in, and the January 6 Capitol attack. Historical context is also provided, with examples ranging from the Ku Klux Klan in the 1920s to the upheavals of the 1960s.
The Legitimacy Shock Cycle
Pape introduces the concept of the legitimacy shock cycle to explain how political violence is escalating. This cycle involves a series of upward spirals, with brief periods of respite before the violence intensifies again. The increase in political violence creates an environment where state actions seem less radical, further eroding the legitimacy of the government.
The upcoming midterm elections are a cause for concern, as the rising tide of political violence could fracture the American identity and undermine the legitimacy of the government. The Iran war has exacerbated this situation, making it even more critical to address the issue. Pape emphasizes that social change is outpacing the ability of America’s political institutions to adapt. However, he notes that violent populism in the past has ended when institutions changed.
The Solution Lies in the Center
Pape argues that the solution to this crisis lies in the political center. Over 70% of Americans believe that political violence is unacceptable, but their voices are being drowned out by the more radical wings on both sides. To defend democracy, politicians need to win far larger majorities, diminishing the possibility of political violence after an election. This overwhelming support for a politician can help knock back the legitimacy shock cycle and defend democracy.
The research conducted by Pape and his team at CPOST has been instrumental in understanding and tracking support for political violence in the United States. The ability to react quickly and take the nation’s pulse has been made possible by institutional support. Pape expresses gratitude for the University of Chicago’s role in this crucial work.
The future of American democracy hangs in the balance, and the solution lies in the political center, where the majority of Americans reject political violence.
