Politics Fuels Human Nature's Darkness

Spread the love

Politics fuels human nature’s dark side. Tap into any social media platform, turn on the television or cue up a podcast, and it is easy to find examples of hypocrisy or bad behavior in political discourse, and new research from University of Nebraska–Lincoln political scientists may explain why.

Politics Fuels Human Nature’s Dark Side: Moral Flexibility and Hostility in the Political Arena

Related Video

Published on: February 17, 2023 Description: Offset your carbon footprint with Wren! Be one of the first 100 people to sign up using this link, and get your first month absolutely ...

Is Capitalism Really Human Nature?

Politics, a ubiquitous aspect of human society, often evokes strong reactions, ranging from passionate engagement to utter disdain. Unfortunately, it can also bring out the worst in us, leading to hypocrisy, hostility, and unethical behavior. Recent research from University of Nebraska–Lincoln political scientists sheds light on why politics has this unsettling effect on our moral compass.

Moral Flexibility in the Political Arena: Bending Principles for Political Gain

The study, published in Political Psychology, reveals that people are more willing to bend their moral principles and engage in unethical actions when it comes to politics. This moral flexibility is particularly pronounced when individuals interact with members of opposing political parties, whom they often perceive as outgroups.

Hostility Towards Outgroups: The Driving Force Behind Moral Ambiguity

The researchers found that hostility towards outgroups is a significant factor driving the moral ambiguity exhibited in political contexts. This hostility stems from deep-seated dislike and animosity towards those who hold different political views.

No Exceptions: A Universal Tendency to Bend Moral Standards in Politics

The study’s findings apply across the board, regardless of age, ideology, or political affiliation. Everyone, it seems, is susceptible to this erosion of moral standards in the political realm.

Moral Judgments Based on Personal Preferences: Overlooking Unethical Behavior from Preferred Politicians

The research also highlights a disturbing trend: people tend to be more morally tolerant of politicians they like, just as they would be with a friend. This favoritism can lead to overlooking or even excusing unethical behavior from preferred politicians.

The Perils of Outrage Politics: Divisive Rhetoric and Moral Ambiguity

In today’s increasingly polarized political climate, the researchers emphasize the dangers of outrage politics, where politicians and media outlets engage in divisive rhetoric that further fuels hostility and moral ambiguity. This can lead to a vicious cycle, where the more we demonize the other party, the more willing we are to set aside our moral values.

Politics and Moral Values: A Complex Relationship Explored by Political Scientist Kevin Smith

The study builds on previous work by political scientist Kevin Smith, who has explored the intricate relationship between political engagement, ideology, and moral values. Smith’s research suggests that political engagement and ideology can shape our moral values, rather than the other way around.

A Call for Moral Consistency in Personal Lives and Political Discourse

The findings of this study underscore the need for moral consistency in both our personal lives and our political discourse. We must strive to uphold the same moral standards in all aspects of our lives, regardless of political affiliation or personal preferences.

Wrapping Up: Reclaiming Our Moral Compass in a Politically Charged World

Politics, while an essential part of society, can bring out the worst in us. Hostility towards opposing parties and the tendency to bend our moral principles in the political realm can lead to unethical behavior and a breakdown of civil discourse. It is crucial to recognize this tendency and work towards maintaining moral consistency in all aspects of our lives, promoting a more ethical and constructive political environment.

FAQs

1. What is the main finding of the study on politics and moral flexibility?

The study reveals that people are more willing to bend their moral principles and engage in unethical actions when it comes to politics, especially when interacting with members of opposing political parties.

2. What drives the moral ambiguity exhibited in political contexts?

Hostility towards outgroups, stemming from deep-seated dislike and animosities, is a significant factor driving the moral ambiguity in political contexts.

3. Does moral flexibility in politics apply to everyone?

The study’s findings apply across the board, regardless of age, ideology, or political affiliation. Everyone is susceptible to this erosion of moral standards in the political realm.

4. How does moral flexibility manifest in political preferences?

People tend to be more morally tolerant of politicians they like, just as they would be with a friend, overlooking or excusing unethical behavior from preferred politicians.

5. What are the dangers of outrage politics in relation to moral ambiguity?

Outrage politics, where politicians and media outlets engage in divisive rhetoric, further fuels hostility and moral ambiguity, leading to a vicious cycle where demonizing the other party erodes moral values.

Links to additional Resources:

1. https://www.psychologytoday.com 2. https://www.apa.org 3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.