I just finished reading the 'Righteous Mind' by Jonathan Haidt. It caused me some emotional turmoil but I am very glad I read it. Haidt's theories were provocative and gave me insight into why people may behave the way they do. It questions and offers theories related to the nature/nurture debate. Any comments?
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It would have saved Jonathan Heidt a lot of time if he'd read the results of recent study first.
A large group of people was given a political survey to determine if they were liberal or conservative, then the entire group was led through a meditation where they visualized themselves safe and secure.
Afterward, everyone was given another political survey, but this time, the answers of the former conservatives matched those of the liberals.
Conclusion: Hitler, Trump, and other Machiavelli's The Prince admirers know what they're doing when they whip people into a frezy of fear of the "others' who are going to "take away your guns" or "take away your jobs," etc.
Fear is behind conservative power.
birdingnut
Level 8
May 14, 2018
6
It is foundational, yes.
There are things to be afraid of, at times. Fear isn’t always irrational.
Fear is a very good instrument in getting people to do what you want, Haidt though shows how issues like loyalty and beliefs of authority also play a part.
@iamjc the terrors of nature, red in tooth and claw. human beings who don’t share your respect your ideas of human rights. Totalitarian government. On some level you probably have to fear yourself as well, just a few things I’ve come up with, as I muse
The study is profiled in the book. The results were not that dramatic; only that the conservatives changed their attitudes to particular events....they didn't change from conservative to liberal in their belief systems.
Could you elaborate a bit further on basic premises.
HappyTrails2020
Level 6
May 13, 2018
0
@VictoriaNotes Thanks so much for the NY Times review. It does a good job stating the topics.
Sounds interesting. I’ll try to find a copy.
WilliamFleming
Level 8
May 13, 2018
0
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