Letter to the Editor

From a psychological aspect, individuals have the tendency to search for information that confirms to what they already believe and as a result, when it comes to discussing religion or, more specifically, politics, it is here that makes us especially bad at reasoning. If most of reasoning is for social cohesion instead of truth-seeking, then belonging to a particular political party should distort our reasoning and make us bad at finding the truth. Belonging to a particular political party also shapes our perception, so why does political identity shape our thinking and perception so dramatically?

An individual’s desire to hold consistent identity beliefs too often outweigh long sought goals to hold accurate beliefs. This is most likely due to the desire to be a part of a political party or social group which fulfills the fundamental and personal needs of the individual, such as the need for belonging which, unfortunately, supersede the need to search for the truth. The desire for identity consistency may help explain why individuals can be so uncomfortable engaging with opinions that challenge their beliefs. In the end and, in lieu of today’s political environment, individuals, no matter which side of the spectrum they stand, shall not be deprived of their right to speak, or publish their sentiments.

Regarding the 2020 election, the truth will be acknowledged by individuals who accept the evidence. Why was the truth not known after the election? Either the truth was not recognized, or it was completely ignored.