Thread: Physiological Basis for Politics

No matter your country, you are probably discouraged by the lack of civility about political matters. This message treads on this lack of civility, and is being sent out with the hope it will foster useful discussion and better understanding.

Some research indicates that our political persuasion is frequently predictable from a very early age. For example, one study tracked children from kindergarten and years after until their political flavor was established. The eventual liberal or conservative orientation of the children could be predicted based on such things as how the children responded to new stimuli and much more.

Of course, there were many exceptions. But, if true, if there is a deeply ingrained "bent" toward being of liberal or conservative philosophy, I think we at least need to be open to discussion.

I am not suggesting, and the research I have read did not in any way suggest a positive or negative, or right or wrong slant to either being liberal or conservative, by the way.

That behavioral research of children came to mind because of an article I just read studying eye movements, and other physiological responses of liberals and conservatives when shown pleasant and unpleasant images. Liberals were much more attuned to pleasant images, while conservatives focused more on negative images. Here's the article...

The Biology Of Politics: Liberals Roll With The Good, Conservatives Confront The Bad

Again, the researchers truly don't seem to cast their work in terms of right and wrong, or better or worse.

For example, before World War II, wouldn't a conservative Winston Churchill be better equipped to deal with Nazi German than a liberal Neville Chamberlain? On the other hand, would you rather have a conservative Joseph McCarthy or a liberal politician responding to the supposed Communist threat in Hollywood?

Please don't react to my example, for it truly limps. Hopefully, though, you understand my point. Some people are born with characteristics that match the times they live, and some people are brilliant and capable, but seem out of step with the needs of their time. True?

Well, if you agreed to my statement above about "some people being born..." with characteristics that well equips them for their historical times, haven't you in essence given your assent to the research that tentatively points toward a deep biological input into our politics? And, if so, speaking to myself, and speaking to everyone (and preaching, admittedly), shouldn't we quit looking at the "other side" as negatively as we do?

I believe all talents and viewpoints are valuable and required for the well being of society. And, whether I agree or not, it is good for me and us to respectfully consider all sides.

Finally, please, if someone responds angrily here, just ignore it!