Voting Genetically
Science Daily reported today that “the decision to vote is partly genetic.” Researchers discovered that the likelihood of participation in politics, including voting, campaign contribution, and other activities, is linked to two genes, MAOA and 5HTT. The researchers are careful to note that “we are not robots” (how profound!), but that nevertheless genetics is a significant factor influencing political participation.
Couple this with the 6 February story indicating that one’s specific political views also “may be influenced by how people are wired genetically,” and it seems that less and less in our minds is left to chance. (Actually, I should say ‘left to choice’, as genetics is inherently a matter of chance..but no matter.)
The hypothetical dystopias resulting from this are fascinating (and frightening) to ponder. Isaac Asimov once wrote a short story called “Franchise,” in which a massive computer calculated electoral probabilities to the point that it was only necessary for one person to vote. As prenatal genetic testing becomes more common, it is easy to conceive of a similar system based on biology: the government could simply calculate the genetic data and determine who will win. Voting? Bah! Waste of time!
Without free will, democracy becomes pointless. No one would seriously argue right now that genetics negates freedom of decision; but a trend toward such thinking is evident in our culture. Consider the fact that many do argue, though not explicitly, that genetics limits personal responsibility. What would normally be considered to be “bad decisions” are increasingly viewed as unfortunate outcomes of one’s genetic burden. There is is certainly merit in this; genetic disorders do exist, and they do in some cases preempt personal responsibility for “wrong” actions. But even as society recognizes this biological fact, we must be ever more careful to safeguard personal freedom where it truly exists.
I’m just curious – how do they connect actions to genes? Decisions must also have ties to life experiences, raising, and parental views.
Also, what exactly do these genes influence that would make one more prone to vote?…patriotism?
I looked at both of these stories and it’s worth noting that they’re both conducted by political scientists with probably a basic (at best) understanding of population genetics. So interpret with a grain of salt.
That being said, I came over to your site from Ask And You Shall Receive. Just wanted to let you know that I’m impressed with your writing. I agree with them that you could spice things up a bit, but your writing is thought provoking.
Best wishes.
Chris
I think its important to point out that while these genes may influence are desire to participate, they are not the be all and end all of political particiapation. Environment and those around you will still play a large role, both in who you vote for as well as your likelyhood to vote. While these findings are insightful, they are not everything. There are still numerous other variables which come into play during a political movement/campaign that these few genes cannot control.
Not everything is genetically predetermined. As a biologist, I recognize the importance of genes (obviously), but we CAN’T reduce everything to genotype and heredability.