Social Class and Political Behavior during a Period of Economic Stagnation: Apathy and Radicalism in the Netherlands, 1985

Abstract

Increased apathy (i. e., retreat from politics), instead of massive political protest among the classes that were hit most severely by the recent economic stagnation and ensuing retrenchment policies, is a neglected phenomenon in Dutch social research. In this article we theorize on this phenomenon. We formulate a model to explain political apathy among lower-class people in the Netherlands during the mid-80s. We also speculate on and formulate an explanatory model on the motives of those who, during this period, were still inclined toward political behavior, notably toward radical political activities. The models are tested with data gathered in the Netherlands in 1985. The results of the analyses indicate that being a member of a deprived class increases the likelihood of being more anomic. In turn, anomie brings about political apathy. On the other hand, education decreases political apathy. The analyses further suggest that persons who give priority to so-called postmaterialistic values are more prone to radical political behavior than others. This effect appears to be stronger to the extent that they have less confidence in policies.