Progressive Activists' Perception of External Control Reaches 87%, New Study Indicates

A recent social media post by Colin Wright, referencing new research from Julian Liberty, claims that a significant majority of progressive activists perceive outcomes as being outside their personal control. The tweet, dated September 4, 2025, states, "Most Americans believe they control their outcomes, but a staggering 87% of progressive activists say outcomes are outside their control." This assertion highlights a notable divergence in worldview between a highly engaged segment of the population and the broader American public.

This claim resonates with findings from a comprehensive report titled "Progressive Activists" by the think tank More in Common, published in February 2025. The report, co-authored by Ed Hodgson and Luke Tryl, delves into the unique beliefs and attitudes of progressive activists, who constitute approximately eight to ten percent of the UK population but exert an outsized influence on social discourse. It notes a shared belief among progressive activists and civic pragmatists in "limited individual agency," positing that "institutions and organisations are therefore the most effective drivers of social change."

More in Common's study further illustrates the distinct outlook of this group. For instance, 41% of progressive activists anticipate their parents will have had a more comfortable life than their own, reflecting a pessimistic view of their future. This sentiment contributes to a desire for radical societal change, often stemming from a perception that the existing system has failed them, particularly among younger, urban graduates.

The report also highlights the high level of political engagement among progressive activists, with 56% sharing political content on social media in the past year, compared to just 14% of the general population. This active online presence amplifies their views, yet their opinions frequently diverge from mainstream public sentiment on cultural and social issues. For example, 65% of the public consider blocking roads an unacceptable form of protest, a view shared by only 25% of progressive activists.

This disparity extends to fundamental principles, as progressive activists are uniquely inclined to prioritize "protecting people from hate speech over protecting freedom of speech." The comprehensive research by More in Common underscores that while progressive activists are deeply motivated by social good, their distinct worldview, including a focus on systemic issues over individual agency, often places them at odds with the broader public's perspectives and approaches to societal change.