Elite Mobilization, Symbolic Politics and Elections in Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study examines how the elites and politicians keenly employ symbolic politics either to win or to consolidate power. While the study is attempting to provide theoretical understanding of the concepts of elite mobilization and symbolic politics, it is trying to examine Sri Lanka where the Sinhala political actors ardently exploit the majority Sinhalese emotional symbols for their electoralgains. The study also briefly speaks of the consequences of such hostile symbolic politics in the polity.