The psychology of political polarization | Conservatives vs. Liberals

19 Views

  • Thanks! Share it with your friends!

    You disliked this video. Thanks for the feedback!

admin
Published
Who’s more moral, conservatives or liberals? This social psychologist’s new research might surprise you.

For more stories, ideas, and advice from changemakers tackling our biggest challenges, subscribe to Stand Together ► https://www.youtube.com/standtogethercc

-------

Kurt Gray, an associate professor at psychology and neuroscience at UNC Chapel Hill, discusses the roots of America's deep divisions using the framework of morality. Humans, who were historically prey rather than predators, evolved with a harm-based mindset, which influences our moral decisions. Morality, according to Dr. Gray, developed as a psychological tool to encourage cooperation and prevent harm within groups.

Dr. Gray points out that both liberals and conservatives have a moral sense focused on protecting themselves, their families, and their societies. The key difference lies in whom they perceive as vulnerable to harm. For instance, liberals might view undocumented immigrants as victims of circumstance who need protection in the US, while conservatives might see US citizens as vulnerable to an influx of labor and competition for jobs.

Dr. Gray emphasizes the importance of recognizing this harm-based perspective in others to cultivate more constructive conversations around issues. Understanding the shared motivations behind the behaviors of “the other side” and realizing the commonality in our moral foundations can help bridge divides and create a more civil society.

-------

Watch more videos about the people fighting to bridge America's divides and promote free speech, in our Bridging Divides playlist ►
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLF-0tjFMo6OKmZH5xG5LTNuGciH0Vst3S&feature=shared

And visit Stand Together’s website to learn more ► https://standtogether.org/
Category
Psychology
Be the first to comment

Up Next