The effects of turnout at major climate protests on politically-interested bystanders: a survey field experiment

Abstract

Do people change climate-related opinions when they learn that thousands protested? Two survey field experiments tested how turnout at major climate demonstrations shaped politically interested individuals’ views in a German national election. Turnout significantly increased perceived movement efficacy, especially among more involved participants, and potentially increased internal political efficacy. Pro-environmental attitudes and vote intentions remained unchanged. Protest days appear to signal collective capacity rather than drive immediate attitude change.