political psychology

In weeks two and three, we reviewed two prominent ideologies, liberalism and conservatism. It was argued that each was a political psychology. In other words, each made claims regarding human nature, politics and governance. In weeks four and five, we reviewed empirical research on political ideology, cognition and personality. Which of these ideologies is supported by the research? To answer this question, please do the following:

a. Briefly outline the key psychological claims made by liberals and conservatives regarding human nature (how people think, how they feel and are motivated, and how they initiate action).

b. Then discuss the results of the relevant political psychological research as it supports or contradicts the ideological claims you outlined in (a).

2) In weeks six, seven and eight, the development approach to the study of political thinking was introduced. Discuss this approach and its political implications. Please do the following:

a. Briefly describe this developmental approach (e.g. Kohlberg, Kegan and Rosenberg).
i. What are the key assumptions guiding this approach?

b. Describe what Rosenberg refers to as ‘systematic reasoning’ focusing on the understanding of people, society and politics it produces.

c. Drawing on you answer to 2b, explain how populism (reviewed in week ten) would be received by people who are thinking systematically.
i. Discuss what the basic nature of populism and the view of politics and governance it advocates.
ii. Explain why systematic thinking would lead to a rejection of the populist message.

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