Ethnicity and Ideology: A Theory

Abstract

Abstract The chapter introduces the prevailing notion that ethnicity poses challenges to stable democratic politics, leads to particularistic extremism, conflict, and deviates from policy-based, ideological politics. It examines the existing literature on ethnic politics, demonstrating the general view of ethnicity as a source of political particularism that corrupts the democratic process. The chapter develops a theory that challenges this perception by proposing a theoretical framework of “ethnic liberalism.” It argues that ethnic minorities primarily aim to secure their survival as distinct groups. Under specific conditions, these minorities seek to protect individual and collective rights, restrain majority nationalism, and promote democratic outcomes through liberal constitutional arrangements. Ethnic minority representatives collaborate with favorable political forces to achieve these goals, framing domestic political competition, and shaping democratic institutions. Yet, ethnic liberalism is circumstantial; it can be undermined under certain conditions, such as in the context of potential secession, religious identification, or influence of illiberal ethnic kin states. The chapter outlines the conditions favoring ethnic liberalism and those that might undermine it, elucidating the impact of ethnic minority status on political preferences, party systems, and democracy in general.