When people don't know who to vote for, they either jump on a political bandwagon or vote for "Deez Nuts," because why not?
For all its glory, the American political system is one of the most deeply flawed institutions in the world. The polity was bastardized no more than a decade into the nation's founding due to one single thing-- partisanship. Despite George Washington warning the nation of the dangers of political factions in his farewell address, partisan politics developed in little to no time with the rise of the Federalist and Democratic-Republican parties.
Understand-- partisanship was an inevitable phenomenon. Political dissent is inherent in a democratic system. I do not seek to argue for the deconstruction of political parties-- rather, I seek to plead for individualism in the issue of political identity.
Contemporary America is divided by the schism of political viewpoints. The political left is championed by the Democratic party whereas the political right is defended by the Republican party. Issues such as gun control, abortion, immigration, campaign reform and climate change continue to bisect the population. Certainly, independent parties exist, but the political system makes it nearly impossible for such small parties to see any real success.
The sociology and psychology of political identity are predictable. Huh et al. (2014) demonstrated that when people don't necessarily have a strong opinion on a particular topic, they resort to mimicking the beliefs of the people around them.
Not having a strong opinion on a topic is completely fine. Taking up the political beliefs of people around you because you don't have a heavy opinion of your own is not.
The youth of America, especially within university settings, have a tendency to lean to the political left. This trend is reinforced by the often liberal environments in which students live.
The older generations of the nation tend to lean to the political right.
Consider this: you should not conform to the political ideology of your environment if you don't have a strong opinion of your own. No more than five minutes of research on a topic of political controversy is often enough for a person to formulate their own opinions. Putting Corporate America's massive influence on politicians aside for a moment, the American political system is shaped by the voice of the people. What you think-- who you vote for-- sculpts the future of our laws and regulations.
I don't care whether or not you think climate change is a hoax (even though it's not) or if you think that America needs increased gun control. What is truly important is that you have your own opinion on these matters.
Don't really know what to think about the issue of abortion? Do just a little bit of research on the topic. Have no idea what you think about immigration in America? Just form an educated opinion on the issue!
With Election 2016 approaching quickly, I urge you not to fall into the sociological trap of political ideology. Hopefully the candidates and their stances on the various issues dividing our nation inspire you to think critically about these topics, and vote come time of Election Day.
