The Formation of Political Stances: Influence and Individual Thought

Politics is a complex interplay of influences, from personal experiences to the media. It is often said that people form their political stances based on what they absorb from their environment, including media, family, and friends. However, this belief is sometimes oversimplified. While external factors play a significant role, individual thought and personal experiences also significantly impact the formation of one’s political opinions.

Influence of the Media

The media is a primary source of information on political matters. However, it is not always a transparent conveyor of facts. The media can be influenced by various biases and agendas, leading individuals to accept certain narratives without critical examination. Unfortunately, many people in this age of information often echo what the media feeds them, leading to a homogenized and biased perception of reality. Friends and family, too, are influenced by the media, often leading to herd mentality and a lack of independent thought.

Personal Experience and Parental Influence

Contrary to media influence, personal experiences and the influence of parents play a crucial role in shaping political stances. Growing up, individuals are exposed to the values and beliefs of their parents, which can serve as a template for their own worldview. However, as they grow and mature, personal experiences can diverge from parental teachings. These divergences can lead to a reevaluation of one's beliefs and, ultimately, a change in political affiliations.

Personal Journey and Shifting Stances

My own journey to political transformation began with my upbringing as a Republican. Raised in the Eisenhower tradition, the political landscapes I witnessed, including Watergate and subsequent events, solidified these beliefs. However, it wasn't until the Republican Party's response to the Poland issue during debates that prompted a critical reevaluation. The polarizing viewpoints and the disconnect between traditional belief systems and real-world events eventually led me to align with the Democratic party, which appeared more in line with my core values.

Tribal Politics and Fear-Mongering

Politics is inherently tribal. One often conforms to the beliefs of the community to fit in, which can suppress independent thought. Even religious leaders can contribute to this phenomenon, especially when their sermons have ulterior motives. The fear of rejection can be a powerful deterrent against changing one's political stance, as individuals can be isolated and ostracized for differing views. This conformity to the group's beliefs is often created with the narrative that standing out is akin to a nail sticking out in a board, making it easier to be hammered down than to collaborate and raise the others.

Case Study: John Thune and Gardasil Vaccine Ban

The actions of John Thune serve as a stark example of the impact of fear-mongering and tribal politics in the political arena. In January 2005, Thune supported a bill banning the FDA from approving the Gardasil vaccine, which has the potential to save thousands of lives annually from cervical cancer. His reasoning, that it would encourage promiscuity, exposed a level of irrationality that is alarming. Such fear-based arguments are reminiscent of Taliban-like thinking and demonstrate the dangerous consequences when such attitudes are tolerated within political parties.

My decision to never support any Republican again was a direct consequence of this and similar incidents, highlighting the importance of critical thinking and ethical considerations in politics.

Conclusion

The formation of political stances is a multifaceted process influenced by personal experiences, the media, and the tribal nature of politics. While external factors play a significant role, individual thought and critical examination of political issues cannot be ignored. It is essential to question what one is told and to base political decisions on rational and ethical considerations, rather than fear-driven narratives or the desire to fit in.