The Politics of Mortal Terror

Terror-management theory is used to examine how political preferences are altered when existential concerns are aroused. The theory posits that the uniquely human awareness of death engenders potentially debilitating terror that is managed through devotion to cultural worldviews that give individuals a sense that life has meaning and that they have value. Research shows that mortality salience increases adherence to cherished cultural values and instigates efforts to bolster self-esteem. Here we review research documenting the role of terror-management processes in promoting support for charismatic leaders who share one's cherished beliefs and aggression against those who hold rival beliefs. Implications for fostering effective participatory democracy are considered.