Public Support for Political Compromise

Abstract This chapter develops what it means to compromise in politics and how political compromise is distinctive from other ways of resolving political differences. The virtues of compromise are discussed as well as its perils. The reasons why we might see Americans as wary about compromise are outlined. While people’s ideological motivations may discourage the pursuit of compromise, this chapter argues that people think about compromise in both partisan and principled ways. Compromise is a democratic norm, one Americans support not because it benefits their personal stakes, but also because they believe it is a desirable way to resolve political disputes.