Explaining Antithetical Movements to the Black Lives Matter Movement Based on Relative Deprivation Theory

Abstract

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement has galvanized citizens of all races, ethnicities, genders and ideologies in a common cause to protest racism. Its central focus is protesting continued racism against African Americans, but it has spurred a broader ideological demand for equality for all Americans. The movement does not seek Black dominance, but equal treatment in the justice system and general society. In opposition to this movement are antithetical movements supporting the continuation of the historical dominance of White males in government, private sector leadership roles, and in the general societal hierarchical perspective of superiority and dominance. This opposition is fueled by fear of a country that has evolved into a blend of races and genders embracing the “uniqueness of the other” rather than disdain for the perceived threat from the non-majority. For some, this perceived threat is substantiated through the capitulation of government leaders and radical groups that aggressively recruit members by feeding on fearful perceptions of a country in evolution where Whites are no longer in the majority. The focus of this essay is an exploration of subtle and not so obvious factors contributing to continued antithetical movements combating the ideology of the BLM movement. The “fear” driving these movements are tied to relative deprivation theory, although this article argues these antithetical movements are based on perceived rather than real causes of deprivation and that they are driven by those who seek to take advantage of them.