Has Anti-Americanism Become a "Progressive Prejudice" in Germany? Attitudes of the German Public toward America and Americans. Issue 2 (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beyer, Heiko; Liebe, Ulf
• Is Part Of: Sociological quarterly. Volume 58:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 202
• Page End: 228
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: Collective behavior and social movements -- global and transnational society -- peace -- war -- and social conflict; Sociology -- Periodicals; 301.05
• DOI: 10.1080/00380253.2017.1296755
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-0253

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The article examines the causes and social mechanisms of anti-American attitudes and behavior and illustrates the fruitfulness of this theoretical approach using the example of Germany. We argue that anti-American attitudes are rooted mainly in two sociopsychological functions: the rationalization of social change and the projection of self-parts that have been suppressed. Other determinants are social norms, lack of personal social contact with Americans, and a strong national identity. Further, we also investigate the correlation between anti-American attitudes and behavioral intentions. Using a national sample ( n = 1, 201) and a comprehensive measure of anti-Americanism, we document the distribution of perceptions about America and Americans among the German population and explore the explanatory power of the theoretical concepts.