ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the results of two surveys and in-depth interviews conducted with supporters and opponents of the Umbrella Movement to explore what audience acceptance and defiance mean. Survey findings suggest that audience acceptance entailed the belief that the regime’s proposed solution to avert the threat was effective. On the other hand, those who saw the securitizing moves as threats to cherished freedoms were motivated to defy the moves. Thematic analysis of the interviews suggests that opponents and supporters had opposing worldviews that stemmed from how they saw the relationship between the people and the government. Opponents accepted Hongkongers as subjects of an authoritarian regime, while Occupy supporters saw Hongkongers as citizens who were entitled to have a voice.
