Polarization Continues Unabated
Written by Brian Garst, Posted in Culture & Society
Barack Obama promised to be a game-changer when it comes to polarization (McCain made similar, though less direct, promises). He clearly promised more than he could deliver (which I predicted would be the case at the time), as a new Gallup poll shows.
The trend line here is interesting. It fits with my own theory, that bigger government results in greater polarization. However, it’s possible I was right for the wrong reasons. I readily admit that I cannot rule out other explanations. It’s possible, for instance, that this is a reflection of greater ideological homogenization of the parties thanks to realignment. Southern conservative have shifted from the Democrats to Republicans while Northeastern liberal Republicans have made the reverse trip.
Can you think of any other explanations for the trend?
I serve as Vice President of the Center for Freedom and Prosperity, a non-profit think tank dedicated to preserving tax competition and free markets. This site features my personal views, which are not reflective of CF&P.