Threat Perception, Trust, and Authoritarian Alternatives

Responding to the unprecedented levels of political and social instability our contemporary world is facing, Pernia provides a groundbreaking analysis of how perceived threats—whether societal or personal—shape citizens' trust in government and their increasing support for strong leadership. Through in-depth case studies of the Philippines and Taiwan, the book reveals why citizens reward governments during external crises but withdraw support when faced with personal insecurities. With empirical insights and cutting-edge research, it offers a fresh perspective on the emotional and psychological forces driving the rise of authoritarianism in democracies. A valuable resource for academic, researchers, students in Political Science, Comparative Politics especially those interested in political psychology, authoritarianism and democratization. It is also of interest to policymakers, political consultants, and think tanks engaged in democratic governance and political stability as well as sociologists, psychologists, and political analysts studying the emotional aspects of political behavior and the crisis of democratic institutions.