The Psychological Roots of Public Opinion toward a Militant Group: The Case of Pakistani Lashkar-e-Tayyaba

Abstract

This paper explores Pakistani public opinion toward the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba (LeT) (also known as Jamaat ul Dawa, or JuD), which is one of the most competent and lethal Pakistan-based and backed militant groups operating in India and elsewhere in South Asia. Building on the theory of significance quest, this study argues that Pakistanis who believe that the group will increase their own sense of personal significance are most likely to sympathize with the group. This study contends that the LeT, which is allied with the Pakistani state, should be most favorably viewed by those who look favorably on the political status quo in Pakistan, Punjabis, Ahl-e-Hadith adherents and women as these are the groups most likely to believe they gain status because of the LeT. Conversely, the LeT should be opposed by Shia, Barelvis, Deobandis, and Baloch Pakistanis, all groups that are disparaged by the LeT and thus see it as a threat to their status. Using data from a country-wide survey of 7, 653 Pakistanis carried out in 2013, these contentions are tested in a multiple regression analysis and are supported.