Ruben Van Severen shows why politically cynical citizens often praise the idea of referendums, but are not necessarily enthusiastic when they take place. Drawing on research in Flanders, he shows how poor topic choice can turn a tool meant to reconnect disillusioned citizens into one that risks widening the gap
PhD Candidate in Psychology, Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology, Ghent University
Ruben studies citizen preferences for alternative decision-making models other than representative democracy.
His research investigates what these preferences are and the psychological factors that shape them, such as political cynicism and ideological beliefs.
Ruben's work has appeared in various journals including European Journal of Political Research, Policy Studies, Political Research Exchange and Social Psychology.
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