CHRISTOPH SCHMIDT
In the two blocks, attitudes towards nationality, democracy and trust in politics are completely opposite. There is also strong polarization when it comes to feeling a threat from migrants and Muslims or feeling that they are personally disadvantaged.
The analysis published on Thursday sees a division in society and a fundamental conflict over identity. The scientists call the two camps “defenders” – they therefore include 20 percent of the population – and “discoverers” with a share of 14 percent. In between there are two groups with “middle positions”. Globalization effects such as migration, financial crises, climate crises or the pandemic intensify the conflict according to the authors.
The international population survey was also carried out in France, Sweden and Poland. The market research company Kantar surveyed around 5,000 people at the end of 2020. According to the authors, the statements of the study also apply in many areas to France and Sweden.