When consensus fails: an analysis of the schism within the Italian Communist Party (1991)

Abstract

Schisms within groups are extremely widespread, yet the phenomenon has been virtually ignored within social psychology. Indeed prominent theories of group process virtually exclude the possibility of schism by presupposing the unitary nature of group identity. In this paper we offer a social psychological approach to the schismatic process based on the idea that, while group members may expect to achieve consensus, the issue of where that consensus should reside may be a matter of argument. When differing constructions cannot be reconciled such that what one faction considers to represent group identity is seen by the another to contradict group identity, then the basis for schism exists. This approach is illustrated using an analysis of the 1991 split of the Italian Communist Party (PCI) into two organizations, the PDS and RC. Interviews with 26 members of these two organizations show that they produce different arguments concerning the identity of the categories involved. However, all the arguments are structured so as to construe the ingroup faction as consonant with the true identity of the PCI and the outgroup faction as dissonant with that identity. The implication of this analysis both for a social psychology of schism and for the conceptualization of group consensus are discussed. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

When Subgroups Secede: Extending and Refining the Social Psychological Model of Schism in Groups

“…It is expected that those who are in favor of women priests not only will not perceive identity subversion but also will believe that the ordination of women strengthens and enhances the group identity. This prediction is consistent with findings from previous studies of schism (Sani & Reicher, 1998. In these studies, it was found that, according to the group members who are in favor of change, the change is actually a development that is consonant with the core principles of the group.…”

“…That means that they agree with the legislation not simply because it is seen as fair and as not implying a subversion of the group identity but also because it is seen as a change that implies continuity with a developing tradition rather than discontinuity and rupture. This is an important finding because it confirms that, as argued above, no group member would intentionally contradict the group identity (Sani & Reicher, 1998). More specifically, it shows that the group identity is the referent against which decisions about changes in the group norms are made and debates about possible changes revolve around the implications of a proposed change for the group identity.…”

Collective recognition and function in concepts of institutional social groups.

“…This disagreement will motivate them to break off when conflict arises around how the group should continue, or when there are dramatic changes in policies. This mechanism accords with social psychological models of real-world schisms (Sani, 2005; Sani & Reicher, 1998, 2000).…”

Contested identities and schisms in groups: Opposing the ordination of women as priests in the Church of England

“…In sum, the present analysis both con®rms and extends the conclusions of Sani and Reicher (1998). Theoretically, the model of schism is extended to include their modi®ed concept of voice as well as the original concept of change of essence.…”