The "chicken-and-egg" problem in political neuroscience

Behav Brain Sci. 2014 Jun;37(3):317-8. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X13002616.

Abstract

A comprehensive review by Hibbing et al. establishes close links between physiological and psychological responses and ideological preferences. However, existing research cannot resolve the "chicken-and-egg problem" in political neuroscience: Which is cause and which is effect? We consider the possibility, which they reject, that general ideological postures, if consistently adopted, could shape psychological and physiological functioning.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Attitude*
  • Humans
  • Individuality*
  • Models, Psychological*
  • Personality / physiology*
  • Politics*