Legitimacy and the Support of Revolutionary Coalitions

Abstract

The authors develop a theory of conditions under which inequity will lead to attempts to change the structure. Factors affecting the likelihood of attempts include power differences, false consciousness, low self-esteem, and perceived legitimacy of the inequality. Experimental research focusing on legitimacy show that propriety, endorsement, and authorization all affect the likelihood that group members will support a revolutionary movement.

Description

This article is a revision of a paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association at Atlanta, Georgia in August 1988.

Keywords

Legitimacy, Revolutionary Coalitions

Citation