System Justification Theory

Abstract

System justification theory (SJT) is a social‐psychological theory proposed by John Jost and collaborators to explain why members of disadvantaged groups often actively embrace and even promote existing inequalities. SJT assumes three distinct psychological motives or justification tendencies. In line with previous theorizing, SJT proposes a self‐justification and an in‐group justification motive, referring to the need for a favorable self‐image as a legitimate actor, and the need to maintain a favorable image of one's in‐group. Critically, SJT proposes a system justification motive aimed at viewing the larger social system as fair and desirable. SJT argues that social stereotypes and political ideologies especially serve a palliative function as they allow individuals to maintain the legitimacy of the status quo. Predictions based on SJT have been tested in experimental and survey research, which provide substantial support for the theory.