Although it might seem politically incorrect to suggest that a person’s political beliefs can be determined, even in part, by their physiology, a growing body of published scientific research demonstrates a correlation between biology and political ideology. These studies indicate that our genes and brains play a significant role in shaping our opinions and, consequently, our votes (Journal of Political Science, 2015).
A team of researchers including microbiologist and political scientist, Peter Hatemi of Penn State University and Rose McDermott of Brown University, studied the correlation between our deep-seated fears and political views. What they discovered was that people who have a more fearful disposition also tended to be more politically conservative. They were also found to be less tolerant of immigrants and people of different races. McDermott emphasized that this does not mean that every conservative is fear based, but that fearful people are more likely to be conservative (Brown Edu, 2015).
In a study published in the Journal of Current Biology, Darren Schreiber, a political neuroscientist at the University of Exeter, collaborated with colleagues at the University of California Santa Barbara. They observed the brain scans of 82 people participating in risky gambling. Holding out for more money increased the possibility of rewards, but also the possible losses. What they observed was that when Republicans took the exact same gambling risks, they were activating different parts of the brain than Democrats. Republicans were using the right amygdala, the center of the brain’s threat response (fight-or-flight system). This part of the brain is important for processing fear, risk, and reward. In contrast, Democrats showed greater activation in the left insula, involved in processing emotions and self, and social, awareness. This region of the brain has the capacity to understand what others might think and feel. Amazingly, the study accurately predicted 82.9% of the participants’ political party choices. This is considerably better than the conventional method of basing predictions on political affiliation of their parents (70%).
Schreiber concluded that not only does having a particular brain influence your political views, but also having a political view influences and changes your brain. Recent research from the University of Carolina concluded that Democrats and Republicans are not wired the same. Scientists found more neural activity in areas of the brain believed to be associated with broad social connectedness in Democrats (friends the world at large), and more open to creativity and new experiences. Republicans had more active areas linked with tight social connectedness (family, country), the importance of individuality, autonomy, and the need for order in their lives. This aligns with previous studies that suggest that Democrats tend to think more globally on issues and Republicans see things through a more American filter. These findings also countered previous findings suggesting that Democrats were more empathic. It is just that Republicans are more likely to focus their empathy on family and people they know.
The author of the study, Roger Newman-Norland, believes it is helpful for people with opposing personalities and core beliefs to understand why they don’t think alike. Brain differences can be a result of genetics, experiences, or a combination of both. The
Political season is soon upon us and activity is now heating up with elections on the horizon. Emotions fueled by strong convictions can magnify divisions and create vitriol. We would be better served by mutual understanding of the nature of our differences. If mutual agreement cannot be achieved then mutual understanding and respect is essential for obtaining the common good. Being in agreement should not be a prerequisite for being kind.
This blog item was written by Michael Orlans who runs Evergreen Psychotherapy Center, along with Dr. Terry Levy. They are known together as the Attachment Experts who specialize in attachment treatment for attachment disorder and trauma.
