Cognitive Dissonance and Political Beliefs: Why Republicans Play Both Sides

The term cognitive dissonance has become more prominent in contemporary politics, particularly among Republicans. This phenomenon, which involves holding two contradictory beliefs simultaneously, is not merely a breach of logic but a psychological state that can significantly affect one's actions and beliefs. In this article, we will explore how cognitive dissonance manifests among Republicans in the context of the 2020 election and subsequent political actions, illustrating how they can simultaneously deny scientific developments and credit themselves for advancements.

The mRNA Vaccine Development and Republican Claims

The development of the mRNA vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus was a joint effort between scientists and pharmaceutical companies worldwide, with the first viable mRNA vaccines emerging in 2020, in Germany. This happened long before Donald Trump, the then-US President, even entertained the idea of running for the presidency. Contrary to the perceived narrative on social media, no direct involvement of Trump or the Republican Party in this groundbreaking medical advancement can be traced. The SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine was a product of advanced research done by scientists and companies independent of political influences.

The Practice of Doublethink

Doublethink, a term popularized by George Orwell in his novel 1984, is a type of cognitive dissonance where an individual accepts two contradictory beliefs as true without feeling any mental conflict. This behavior is not exclusive to political figures but is a common human phenomenon that can be observed in various contexts.

Among Republicans, doublethink manifests in several ways:

Claiming Both Biden as an Old Fool and a Mastermind: Republicans have long characterized former President Biden as an unfit and elderly leader, yet they simultaneously argue that he masterfully devised a well-orchestrated election victory over Trump. This contradiction stems from a need to justify their support for Trump despite his defeat. Border Crisis Contradictions: Republicans staunchly portrayed the migrant crisis at the border as a threat, yet, paradoxically, they credit Trump for solving the issue with his wall. The reality is that the wall had no discernible impact on the number of migrants crossing the border, but this myth persists. Supporting an Infamous Figure: Some Republicans defend former President Trump despite his numerous scandals, including sexual misconduct, obstruction of justice, and other crimes. They rationalize these behaviors by focusing on his perceived achievements or downplaying his faults. Technological Advances vs. Conspiracy Theories: Republicans disagree with the rapid development and widespread acceptance of mRNA vaccines, yet they claim credit for Trump's brief involvement, which was minimal and in no way decisive.

Implications of Cognitive Dissonance in Politics

The consistent display of cognitive dissonance among Republicans raises important questions about the state of political discourse in the United States. It suggests a growing divide between reality and perception, leading to polarized views and a breakdown in rational debate. This can have severe consequences for public health, policy-making, and the overall well-being of society.

As voters and citizens, it is crucial to be aware of these cognitive distortions and to critically evaluate the information we consume. While it is natural to have conflicting opinions and beliefs, holding contradictory views without acknowledging the inherent paradoxes can lead to harmful outcomes.

Understanding and addressing cognitive dissonance is vital for fostering a more informed and empathetic society, capable of making rational and evidence-based decisions. In the long run, this can help reduce polarization and promote constructive dialogue and action.