When Do People Support Institutional Change? Towards a Socio-Psychological Theory of Collective Action

Abstract

"This research tested the adequacy of a dependence model to predict when people vote for a change in authorities representing them. Based on concepts derived from interdependence theory, this model assumes that people will support institutional change to the extent that they (a) are less satisfied with outcomes provided by these authorities, (b) consider them as less legitimate, (c) perceive better alternatives, and (d) smaller transition costs. Together these four factors are believed to reduce people's loyalty toward the authorities in place, which positively affects their support for change. This social-psychological theory of collective action received considerable support in three separate voting events: (a) the 1992 and (b) 1997 UK general elections, and (c) the 1997 devolution referendum in Wales. The implications of the model for understanding collective action and institutional change in society will be discussed."