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This is an election year. Many discussions are taking place regarding political views and what different people want in a political leader. These videos discuss the neurobiological and genetic components proposed to explain why different people hold their unique ideological views. What are your thoughts on the ideas presented in the videos by the two different presenters? How do you see this might change or be seen a bit different when you add cultural influences and a person’s worldview into an individual’s political makeup?

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Election years often bring to the forefront diverse perspectives on political leadership and voter behavior. The videos in question explore the intriguing hypothesis that neurobiological and genetic factors influence ideological inclinations, offering a scientific basis for why individuals differ in their political beliefs. The first presenter emphasizes the evidence suggesting that innate brain structures and genetic predispositions can shape political attitudes, implying that some aspects of political identity are rooted in biology. The second presenter extends this idea by considering how these biological factors interact with environmental influences, such as upbringing and cultural context, to form a complex individual political profile.

From my perspective, the neurobiological approach provides a compelling explanation for why political opinions can be deeply felt and resistant to change. It suggests that some individuals may be biologically predisposed to favor certain values or ideologies, which can help explain persistent political polarization. However, I believe it is essential to consider the role of environmental factors, such as cultural influences, social experiences, and personal worldview, which substantially shape political beliefs over time.

Cultural influences are particularly significant because they provide the context within which genetic and neurobiological predispositions are expressed. For example, an individual's cultural background can reinforce or challenge innate tendencies, leading to diverse political outcomes even among people with similar biological predispositions. Additionally, an individual’s worldview—comprising personal values, experiences, and ideological frameworks—interacts dynamically with biological factors, influencing political resilience, flexibility, or change.

In conclusion, while neurobiological and genetic explanations offer valuable insights into the roots of political ideology, it is critical to adopt an integrative perspective. Recognizing the interplay between biology, culture, and worldview helps us better understand the complexity of political behavior. This comprehensive approach fosters empathy and encourages more nuanced political discussions, vital in an election year when ideological divides are prominent.

References

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  • Way, B. M., & Lieberman, M. D. (2010). Is there a genetic contribution to political orientation? Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 14(3), 93-98.
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  • Inglehart, R., & Norris, P. (2017). Cultural Backlash: Trump, Brexit, and the Rise of Populism. Cambridge University Press.
  • Haidt, J. (2012). The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion. Pantheon Books.