Clifford Stott

Clifford John Thornton Stott (born July 1965) is professor of social psychology at Keele University. He is a specialist in the psychology of crowds, group identity, and football hooliganism.

Research His initial research interest was in political dissent and this led to research into how peaceful protests change to become violent through observing the psychology of crowds. His work indicated that, rather than riots being driven by hooligans who are predisposed to violence (the 'mindless mob' perspective developed at the end of the nineteenth century), they are structured and led by beliefs. The majority of the crowd consider that they are peaceful protestors with a right to express their views. If disorder or confrontation starts, and the police act against it, the crowd experiences what they consider is illegitimate police use of force. This changes their behaviour so that they resist the police. His research has led to changes in policing by some authorities with the aim of reducing violent confrontations.

He was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2021 Birthday Honours for services to crowd psychology and the COVID-19 pandemic response.

Selected publications Football 'Hooliganism', Policing and the War on the 'English Disease' . Pennant Books, London, 2007. (With Geoff Pearson)