Making Constituencies: Representation as Mobilization in Mass Democracy

Public division is a common feature of politics, with some commentators warning that the American public is the most divided it has been since the Civil War. Political scientists, political theorists, and public intellectuals suggest that uninformed, misinformed, and disinformed voters are at the root of this division, but manipulation of voters is not as grave a threat to democracy as many scholars and pundits make it out to be. Making Constituencies proposes a new theory of representation as mobilization to argue that divisions like these are created and political representatives of all kinds forge and deploy them to cultivate constituencies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2021
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The concept of a divided United States has become increasingly prevalent since the turn of the twenty-first century. Following the 2020 election, concerns were raised that the American public had reached unprecedented levels of division since the Civil War. Political scientists, political theorists, and public intellectuals have proposed various explanations for this division, attributing it to uninformed, misinformed, and disinformed voters. Some argue that this division stems from individuals' unwillingness to accept facts or scientific evidence, making them susceptible to elite manipulation. Additionally, it fosters a political culture that discourages cross-partisan collaboration in Washington.

However, it is important to recognize that the manipulation of voters is not the sole or primary threat to democracy in America. The greater danger lies in the perception that partisans create, portraying America as a society deeply divided into opposing camps that cannot be reconciled or transformed. This narrative serves as a rallying cry for supporters, reinforcing their allegiance to a particular political ideology or party.

Making Constituencies presents a novel theory of representation as mobilization, which suggests that divisions like these are not inherent in society but rather created and deployed by political representatives of various kinds. The book argues that these divisions are not fixed or immutable but can be forged, manipulated, and reconfigured by politicians to cultivate specific constituencies and advance their interests.

One of the key insights of the book is that political representatives use divisions to mobilize their supporters and gain political power. By creating and reinforcing perceived differences between groups, politicians can appeal to the fears, anxieties, and aspirations of different constituencies, shaping their behavior and attitudes. This mobilization can take various forms, such as identity politics, culture wars, and fear-mongering.

However, the book also emphasizes that political representatives have a responsibility to bridge these divisions and promote unity and cooperation. By engaging in constructive dialogue, building trust, and finding common ground, politicians can create a more inclusive and representative democracy that benefits all citizens. This requires a willingness to compromise, listen to different perspectives, and work towards shared goals.

In conclusion, the idea of a divided United States has become a prevalent feature of contemporary politics. While the manipulation of voters is a significant threat, it is not the sole or primary one. The greater danger lies in the perception of deep divisions that cannot be reconciled or transformed. Making Constituencies offers a new theory of representation as mobilization that suggests that divisions are created and deployed by political representatives to cultivate constituencies. By recognizing the power of these divisions and the responsibility of political representatives to bridge them, we can work towards a more inclusive and democratic society.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 236 x 158 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226804330