Predicting Support for Arabs’ Autonomy from Social Dominance: Identity Complexity and Dehumanization

The present study extends previous research on the role of social dominance orientation (SDO) in favouring intergroup inequality and injustice in international affairs. To this end, we investigated the role of social identity complexity (SIC) and intergroup dehumanization in explaining the relationship between SDO and support for Arabs’ autonomy and well-being. An Italian heterogeneous sample (N = 123), in terms of gender, age, political orientation and income level was considered. We expected that those low on SDO would be more likely to support Arabs’ autonomy and well-being, would have higher SIC, and would be less likely to dehumanize Arabs. We also expected that SIC and dehumanization would sequentially mediate the relationship between SDO and support for Arabs’ autonomy and well-being. Results revealed that Italians low on SDO have higher SIC which endorses lower dehumanization of Arabs. This in turn explained the influence of SDO on support for Arabs. These findings enhance the understanding of the socio-cognitive processes underlying people’s support for international justice and egalitarian movements.