Conservatives and liberals have similar physiological responses to threats

Bert N. Bakker (), Gijs Schumacher, Claire Gothreau and Kevin Arceneaux
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Bert N. Bakker: University of Amsterdam
Gijs Schumacher: University of Amsterdam
Claire Gothreau: Rutgers University
Kevin Arceneaux: Temple University

Nature Human Behaviour, 2020, vol. 4, issue 6, 613-621

Abstract: Abstract About a decade ago, a study documented that conservatives have stronger physiological responses to threatening stimuli than liberals. This work launched an approach aimed at uncovering the biological roots of ideology. Despite wide-ranging scientific and popular impact, independent laboratories have not replicated the study. We conducted a pre-registered direct replication (n = 202) and conceptual replications in the United States (n = 352) and the Netherlands (n = 81). Our analyses do not support the conclusions of the original study, nor do we find evidence for broader claims regarding the effect of disgust and the existence of a physiological trait. Rather than studying unconscious responses as the real predispositions, alignment between conscious and unconscious responses promises deeper insights into the emotional roots of ideology.

Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1038/s41562-020-0823-z

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