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Public perceptions and misperceptions of political authority in the European Union

Author

Listed:
  • Florian Stoeckel

    (Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy & Anthropology, 3286University of Exeter, Exeter, UK)

  • Vittorio Mérola

    (School of Government and International Affairs, Durham University, Durham, UK)

  • Jack Thompson

    (Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy & Anthropology, 3286University of Exeter, Exeter, UK)

  • Benjamin Lyons

    (Departmenmt of Communication, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA)

  • Jason Reifler

    (Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy & Anthropology, 3286University of Exeter, Exeter, UK)

Abstract

How do citizens understand political authority within multi-level systems? We use original survey data from six European Union member states to assess the roles of political identity and interest in shaping citizen attitudes towards political authority in the European Union. We find that citizens with a greater interest in politics are more likely to express views on the authority of the European Union. These individuals are less likely to be uninformed. Interest does not necessarily mean that individuals hold correct perceptions. A substantive number of voters are misinformed about the power of Brussels. We find that citizens with an exclusively national identity are more likely to hold misperceptions than those who think of themselves as both members of their nation and as Europeans.

Suggested Citation

  • Florian Stoeckel & Vittorio Mérola & Jack Thompson & Benjamin Lyons & Jason Reifler, 2024. "Public perceptions and misperceptions of political authority in the European Union," European Union Politics, , vol. 25(1), pages 42-62, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:eeupol:v:25:y:2024:i:1:p:42-62
    DOI: 10.1177/14651165231193833
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    References listed on IDEAS

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