Proposing a multi-dimensional, context-sensitive approach to the study of ideological (a)symmetry in emotion

Abstract

• The debate on ideological symmetry versus asymmetry in emotion is unresolved. • Previous research focused on ideological differences in the intensity of emotional experience. • New work examines different elements of the emotional process in different contexts. • A multi-dimensional, context-sensitive approach may help resolve the (a)symmetry debate. Political psychologists studying ideology have been increasingly examining its relationship with emotion. Much of this work has focused on potential ideological differences in the intensity of emotional experiences, leading to conflicting findings. Some work has supported the perspective according to which fundamental psychological differences exist between ideological leftists and rightists, while other work has challenged this view, demonstrating ideological symmetry in emotion. The present review highlights recent advances that can shed further light on this debate, adopting a multi-dimensional, context-sensitive approach to the study of ideological differences in emotional processes. Accordingly, we propose that instead of asking whether or not ideological differences in emotion exist, researchers should ask when, in what ways, and under what circumstances they exist.