Rates of infectious disease linked to authoritarian attitudes and governance
21 September 2021Researchers argue that a desire for “conformity and obedience” as a result of COVID-19 could boost authoritarianism in the wake of the pandemic.
Psychological ‘signature’ for the extremist mind uncovered
22 February 2021Scientists have mapped an underlying “psychological signature” for people who are predisposed to holding extreme social, political or religious attitudes – and support violence in the name of ideology.
‘Mental rigidity’ at the root of intense political partisanship on both left and right – study
29 August 2019Latest research shows that reduced cognitive flexibility is associated with more 'extreme' beliefs and identities at both ends of the political spectrum. Researchers say that “heightening our cognitive flexibility might help build more tolerant societies”.
‘Cognitive flexibility’ associated with voting attitudes in EU Referendum, study finds
16 April 2018Latest research combining social and political surveys with objective cognitive testing suggests that “cognitive flexibility” contributes to formation of ideology. The study finds correlations between cognitive thinking styles and support for Brexit.
Hard Brexiter or ardent Remainer? Psychologists aim to find out what drives our political ideologies
01 December 2016At a time of increasing divisions within politics – think of the recent battles over whether the UK should remain in or leave the European Union – many are asking what it is that drives political ideologies.
