Can Your Political Beliefs Change?
The Mutability of Moral Principles
New research suggests that our political beliefs may not be as set in stone as we think. A study by Swedish researchers found that people’s responses to moral issues can change dramatically when they are presented with the opposite viewpoint.
The Study
Participants in the study were asked to take a survey on moral issues such as government surveillance and immigration. They then turned to a second page of the survey, which contained the same statements but with the opposite viewpoint.
Surprisingly, almost 70% of participants did not realize that the statements had changed. Even more shockingly, over 50% of participants offered arguments in favor of the opposite viewpoint that they had just opposed.
The Implications
This study suggests that our political beliefs may be more flexible than we realize. We may not be as locked into our beliefs as we like to think.
The Balancer Plug-In
If you want to see how flexible your political beliefs are, you can download a plug-in called The Balancer. This plug-in tracks your online reading habits and calculates your political bias.
The Balancer will show you how unbalanced your news consumption is. It will also suggest websites to visit if you want to broaden your perspective.
Other Factors that Shape Political Beliefs
In addition to our own experiences and biases, there are a number of other factors that can shape our political beliefs, including:
- Social media: Social networking sites can expose us to a wider range of political viewpoints. However, they can also lead to echo chambers, where we are only exposed to views that reinforce our own.
- Genetics: Twin studies have shown that genetics can influence our stance on certain issues, such as abortion and the death penalty.
- Party affiliation: In recent years, the “belief gap” has replaced the “education gap” in American politics. This means that our political beliefs are now more closely aligned with our party affiliation than with our level of education.
- Late-night comedy shows: Late-night comedy shows can actually spur political discussions among friends. This can help to break down partisan barriers and promote understanding.
The Undecided Voter Phenomenon
In any election, there is a small percentage of voters who remain undecided until the very end. These voters are often courted by both major parties.
There are a number of factors that can contribute to voter indecision, including:
- Lack of information: Undecided voters may not be well-informed about the candidates or the issues.
- Cross-pressures: Undecided voters may feel pressure from friends, family, or colleagues to support a particular candidate.
- Negative campaigning: Negative campaigning can turn off undecided voters and make them less likely to vote.
The Impact of Political Advertising
Political advertising is a major force in American elections. Millions of dollars are spent each election cycle on TV, radio, and online ads.
Political advertising can have a significant impact on voters’ perceptions of the candidates and the issues. However, it can also be misleading or deceptive.
The Whitewater of the Campaign
The final weeks of a presidential campaign are often referred to as the “whitewater of the campaign.” This is a time when any slip-up can turn the race upside down.
The whitewater of the campaign is a time of intense scrutiny and pressure. Candidates must be careful not to make any mistakes that could cost them the election.
Debating on Television: Then and Now
Presidential debates have been a staple of American politics for decades. However, the debates have changed significantly over the years.
In the past, debates were more focused on substance and policy. Today, debates are often more focused on personality and style.
Kennedy After Dark: A Dinner Party About Politics and Power
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy hosted a dinner party for a group of intellectuals and journalists. The dinner was intended to be a frank discussion about the challenges facing the country.
The dinner party was a success, and it helped to foster a better understanding between Kennedy and the intellectuals.