Welcome to thepoliticalmind.com, where psychology meets politics.

thepoliticalmind.com showcases current research and opinions within political psychology, an academic discipline concerned with using psychological theories and methods to gain a better understanding of political behavior and theory. Aided by a variety of cognitive and social theories, political psychologists try to understand how individuals and groups form political attitudes and beliefs and make decisions. Hot topics in political psychology include political leadership, group dynamics, ethnic conflict, voting, and the media.

On a more personal note, I ask that you, the reader, approach the topics I present with an open mind and consider temporarily stepping outside of your “moral matrix” (phrase borrowed from Jonathan Haidt) in order to gain a greater understanding of why others have certain attitudes and beliefs, even if they are different from your own. I also encourage you to take a skeptical stance and criticize the research and opinions I present.

Thanks for coming. I hope you enjoy.

-Keytin