Activism as a heroic quest for symbolic immortality: An existential perspective on collective action

Julia Elad-Strenger

doi:10.5964/jspp.v4i1.430

Abstract

Excellent research exists on the conditions that generate political and social activism. Yet a central issue has remained perplexing: how does the personal need to stand out as unique and heroic interact with the concern for the positive image of the group, and the desire to protect and bolster its status, goals and shared values, in propelling collective action? Inspired by existential theory and research, this paper proposes an existential perspective on activism that identifies the human desire for a sense of meaning and significance as an important motivation underlying individuals' choice to engage in collective action. This study outlines an integrative model of collective action, combining insights from existential psychology with insights from the social identity perspective, to bridge together needs and concerns associated with both personal identity and group identity into a single model of collective action through the concept of death-anxiety buffering mechanisms. This model suggests that collective action is an effective means to satisfy existential needs through bolstering and protecting group interests and values on the one hand, and realizing the activist's heroism project on the other. Suggestions for future research are discussed.

Highlights

Excellent research exists on the conditions that generate political and social activism
The social identity perspective has made an invaluable contribution to activism research by emphasizing the role of group identity, and individuals' concern for the positive image of their social group, in mobilizing their willingness to advance and protect its goals and interests through collective action
The present paper introduces the notion of the "twin ontological motives" as a concept integrating the social identity perspective with insights from existential theory and research to uncover the deep motivations underlying individuals' willingness to engage in collective action

Summary

Introduction

Excellent research exists on the conditions that generate political and social activism. This study outlines an integrative model of collective action, combining insights from existential psychology with insights from the social identity perspective, to bridge together needs and concerns associated with both personal identity and group identity into a single model of collective action through the concept of death-anxiety buffering mechanisms. This model suggests that collective action is an effective means to satisfy existential needs through bolstering and protecting group interests and values on the one hand, and realizing the activist's heroism project on the other. The question of the motivations underlying the willingness to engage in collective action remains perplexing in view of the high personal price it often entails: what motivates individuals to make considerable personal sacrifices, sometimes even risking their lives, for the sake of advancing group-based goals and interests?

Objectives

Conclusion