Hochschild's "Stolen Pride" Explores Eastern Kentucky's Complex Identity

In her latest work, "Stolen Pride," sociologist Arlie Russell Hochschild delves into the intricate relationship between pride, shame, and political identity in eastern Kentucky. This region, part of the larger Appalachian area, has faced significant economic challenges due to the decline of coal mining, once a major industry in the area.

Hochschild, a professor at the University of California at Berkeley, spent six years researching and interviewing 80 Kentuckians for this book. Her work builds upon her previous bestseller, "Strangers in Their Own Land," which examined conservative viewpoints in Louisiana's petrochemical belt.

The author introduces the concept of a "pride economy" in Appalachia, where many men face a "pride paradox." This paradox suggests that while hard work and providing for others are sources of pride, unemployment or underemployment, even when due to factors beyond one's control, leads to shame and potentially anger and despair.

Hochschild's research reveals alternative sources of pride among the region's residents. Some find pride in stable marriages or recovery from addiction. However, she also notes that misguided individuals may seek pride through violence or racial resentment.

The book touches on the influence of white nationalism in the area, focusing on a 2017 march in Pikeville. While most interviewees expressed little interest in this ideology, Donald Trump's brand of politics resonated strongly in the region, winning 80% of the vote in Pikeville's county in both 2016 and 2020.

Hochschild suggests that Trump's controversial statements often initiate what she calls an "anti-shame ritual." This process involves media outrage, followed by Trump's appeal to his supporters, positioning himself as a "good bully" defending them against perceived elitist shaming.

The book also briefly touches on religion as a potential alternative source of pride. However, Hochschild notes that much of evangelical Christianity in the area has become intertwined with Trumpism, focusing more on cultural grievances than personal transformation.

"I've felt like I've been accused of crimes committed by ancestors on both my mother's and father's sides, and that makes me furious."

While "Stolen Pride" offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of eastern Kentucky, some critics argue that it doesn't break new ground in the same way as Hochschild's previous work. The literature on politics, emotion, and the white working class has expanded significantly since 2016, making it challenging to offer entirely novel perspectives.

Nevertheless, Hochschild's empathetic approach and in-depth interviews provide a nuanced view of the region's struggles. She emphasizes the need for economic development that respects the area's natural beauty and for alternatives to the pride paradox that many residents face.

As eastern Kentucky continues to grapple with economic challenges and shifting political landscapes, "Stolen Pride" offers a thoughtful exploration of the region's complex identity and the emotional underpinnings of its political leanings.