Divided by Biology, Not Politics
Brent Buchanan suggests that America’s divisions aren’t really about politics—rather, they’re rooted in biology.
He notes that today’s voters often make decisions based on emotions rather than logic, which appears to be a fundamental aspect of human nature.
Buchanan explains, “When I explored academic studies on human behavior, particularly in the context of voting, the inquiry led me to consider what truly drives human actions.”
His findings, while intricate, reveal a straightforward conclusion: survival plays a significant role in shaping our choices.
He elaborates, “Whether it’s voting, buying a car, or deciding to marry, our brains are designed to be energy-efficient. We tend to absorb and process information emotionally and subconsciously rather than analytically through the frontal cortex.”
Buchanan continues, “It’s quite logical… Biologically, our instinct is to survive, and every action we take can often be traced back to that need. Even though we don’t face the same dangers as our ancestors, those primal instincts linger within us.”
He adds, “We were created with purpose: to survive, procreate, and spread a message. That purpose is wired into us biologically.”
Steve Deace concurs with Buchanan’s perspective, highlighting that the most impactful campaign message was from Trump: “Kamala Harris is for them. Trump is for you.”
Buchanan reflects that extreme candidates typically fail, attributing this to the perception that they pose a greater threat to an individual’s security, belief system, or overall safety. This strategy effectively framed Kamala Harris as a more radical option in the presidential race.
He points out another factor connected to the idea of in-groups and out-groups. This instinct for survival often categorizes outsiders as threats.
Many young men and nonwhite voters didn’t base their decisions on issues like transgender rights during the election, he remarks, but rather viewed such topics as symbols of extremism, which ultimately influenced Trump’s success.
