Worth the Risk? Mass Obstruction, Vigilantism, and Public Support for Climate Activists

Abstract

This study examines the influence of mass obstruction tactics within the new climate movement on public support for activists and their goals. Using a survey experiment that manipulates different protest scenarios, we analyze the impact of obstructive protests with and without vigilante intervention on public opinion. Our results suggest that while obstructive tactics are perceived negatively by the public, they do not significantly affect support for climate activists’ goals. Vigilante repression does not moderate reactions to radical protests. The study highlights the complexity of using radical tactics in social movements and the challenges activists face in building coalitions and sustaining mobilization efforts.