Conservative Brains Have More Fear, Less Courage

Scientists at University College London went poking around the noggins of a couple of MPs and 90 students and were surprised to discover that the brains of right-wing subjects were more prone to fear and anxiety and less so to courage and optimism when compared with their counterparts on the left.

This being a small study done for the benefit of a radio show, one ought not to jump to conclusions. Also, because all of the test subjects were adults, the researchers could not determine if your brain makes you conservative or if conservatism shapes your brain. In other words, which comes first: the conservative or the coward? — PZS

The Telegraph via Crooks and Liars:

Scientists have found that people with conservative views have brains with larger amygdalas, almond shaped areas in the centre of the brain often associated with anxiety and emotions.

On the [other hand], they have a smaller anterior cingulate, an area at the front of the brain associated with courage and looking on the bright side of life.

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