Why are elections often portrayed as existential battles?

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Elections Are Often Portrayed as Existential Battles to Energise Supporters

Elections are frequently framed as existential battles, a narrative strategy employed to galvanise supporters. This portrayal, while effective in energising a political base, carries the risk of exacerbating divisions within the populace. The core idea behind this framing is that such intense framing of the contest can mobilise voters who might otherwise be apathetic.
The Strategic Use of Existential Narratives

Political actors often resort to portraying elections as high-stakes, existential contests to capture the attention and commitment of their supporters. This approach aims to create a sense of urgency, suggesting that the very future or identity of a group, community, or the nation is on the line. Such a narrative can motivate individuals to participate more actively, whether by voting, donating, or volunteering, by appealing to their sense of self-preservation or group loyalty.
Energising Supporters Through Intense Framing

The portrayal of elections as battles for survival or fundamental identity is a powerful tool for energising supporters. When voters perceive an election as an existential threat or a critical juncture, their emotional engagement tends to increase significantly. This heightened emotional state can translate into greater enthusiasm and a stronger commitment to the chosen political side, helping parties to mobilise their base more effectively during campaign periods.
Risks of Deepening Societal Divisions

While the strategy of framing elections as existential battles can be effective in energising supporters, it also carries significant risks for societal cohesion. By presenting the political contest as a zero-sum game where one side's victory means the other's annihilation, such narratives can foster an environment of deep animosity and division among citizens. This can be particularly detrimental in plural societies, where diverse groups must coexist and collaborate long after the election results are announced. The emphasis on complete defeat rather than peaceful management of differences can undermine the broader principles of democratic coexistence.

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Why are elections often portrayed as existential battles?

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