Exploring Class-Based Moral Perceptions on Local Governance: A Study of the Middle Class and the Rural Poor in Barangay Población, Malasiqui, Pangasinan

This research examines the existence and characteristics of ideological and moral divisions between the middle class and the urban poor in Barangay Poblacion, Malasiqui, Pangasinan. Based on Wataru Kusaka's "We vs. Them" framework and the Affective Polarization Theory proposed by Iyengar and colleagues, this study aims to explore how differing moral viewpoints among individuals influence the political beliefs of citizens, their engagement in community activities, and their trust or distrust in local government. The research employed qualitative approaches through semi-structured interviews on selected households from both social classes. Through thematic analysis, three major themes were elicited: class-based moral perceptions of leadership and governance; manifestations of moral antagonism within political discourse and participation; and perceived effects of moral and class divides on community cohesion and governance. Findings of this study shows that both classes develop internally formed narratives infused with their own moral judgments that justify their political choices while criticizing the values and actions of individuals in the opposing class. These narratives foster emotional polarization, resulting in a decline in trust and communication between the classes. While the study gives insights into the moral class divides, the qualitative approach does not allow for generalization. Future research may, therefore, incorporate quantitative methodologies to ensure more extensive representation and validate the patterns identified. The study avails the discussion in localizing moral politics to go deeper in the understanding of affective polarization in grassroots governance.