Two temperatures for one thermostat: The evolution of policy attitudes and support for independence in Catalonia (1991-2018)

Using data from 177 surveys, this study examines the evolution of mass preferences in Catalonia from 1991 to 2018, measuring (a) territorial preferences and (b) the central tendency of public opinion in the left-right scale. Consistent with previous research, I find that the political centre in the left-right scale of a subnational public opinion moves in an orderly manner in reaction to economics and both national and subnational incumbents. In contrast, demands for decentralization or independence do not systematically react to economic and political stimuli. Additionally, I find that, more and more, rises in support for independence are correlated with left-wing shifts in public opinion.