NEGATIVE ASSOCIATION

The term negative association refers to the formation of political groups (in -groups) that is based on identification with others who are similarly situated in relation to an external entity, such as another individual or group (out-group). While political groups may form for a variety of positive reasons, for example, on the basis of a common language or religion, or for the pursuit of a common, specific goal, such as the conquest of a certain piece of land, an essential part of what brings their members together is their common difference from an outside entity, as in the case of a common enemy. Negative association manifests itself during crucial moments in the life of political groups: at the founding and during crises that threaten the unity and continued existence of the group. There will be periods of time in which negative association is the primary cause of individuals' identification with a group. At other times, negative association is manifest only in the background, while it is clearly identifiable positive characteristics that unite the members of a political group. Nevertheless, whether a primary, secondary, or minimally auxiliary cause, negative association is always an element of the process by which individuals form their political identities and identify with political groups.