SMU NEWS
Originally Posted: October 11, 2016
Fear and disgust reflexes correlate with stronger conservative values
DALLAS (SMU) – In the past 30 years, scientists have discovered that traits like alcoholism, sexual orientation and being left-handed are determined genetically, rather than by an individual’s environment. Now, Rice Political Science Professor John R. Alford wants to add another trait to that list: political inclination.
It’s a line of research that could give a whole new meaning to “the politics of fear.”
“The stronger your startle reflex, the more likely you are to favor a conservative national defense policy or Trump’s idea to build a wall,” Alford says. “We do the same thing with disgust. People vary by how easily disgusted they are at rotten food or maggots, and the more easily disgusted you are the less likely you are to support abortion or gay marriage or divorce or adultery – socially conservative values.”
Alford will present his research during a free, public lecture at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, in Dallas Hall’s McCord Auditorium. He said he hopes that guests who attend his lecture will come away with a new understanding of how to communicate with people whose politics they disagree with.
“Politics isn’t as intellectual as we think of it,” Alford says. “We have this idea that if we get in a room and act like adults and share a cup of coffee and talk that we could get rid of this basic conflict and come together, but the truth is that left-right, Athens vs. Sparta conflict has been there throughout human history.”
“I want people to accept their political opponents aren’t choosing to be dangerous morons,” Alford says. “They were born that way”
Alford’s lecture is sponsored by the Dedman College interdisciplinary Institute (DCII).
At a Glance
- What: Rice Political Science Professor John R. Alford will discuss his research into whether some political beliefs are inherited, rather than learned behavior.
- Who’s invited: The event is free and open to the public.
- When: 5 p.m. reception, 5:30 p.m. lecture, Thursday, Oct. 20
- Where: McCord Auditorium, Dallas Hall, 3225 University Blvd.
- Sponsor: The Allman Family Lecture Series through the Dedman College Interdisciplinary Institute
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Contact Kenny Ryan, khryan@smu.edu, 214-768-7641
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