Does Left-Right Orientation have a Causal Effect on Support for Redistribution? Causal Analysis with Cross-sectional Data Using Instrumental Variables

Abstract

An influential theoretical perspective in the literature on public support for the welfare state argues that an individual's fundamental political values determine her attitudes toward welfare state principles, policies, or programs (Feldman & Zaller, 1992; Jacoby, 1994). This theoretical perspective also contends that one of the most fundamental political values is the individual's position on the political left–right scale. Theoretically, the left–right scale is a heuristic, organizing scheme that individuals use to navigate the political world. Furthermore, the left–right scale helps individuals reduce complexity, compensate for lack of information, and it represents an efficient way of storing and understanding political information (Inglehart & Klingemann 1976; Fuchs & Klingemann, 1990).