Austerity Policies Gain Public Support When Specific Benefits Highlighted
The article explores why some people supported austerity measures during the Eurozone crisis. Researchers studied preferences for austerity in Spain and found that support can increase if specific reasons or benefits are highlighted. Endorsement by the EU did not affect support for austerity, but support for spending decreased when tax increases and concerns about fiscal commitments to the EU were emphasized. This study helps us understand why unpopular policies like austerity can be accepted by the general public.