This video is part of the applied Utilitarianism playlist, where we take Utilitarianism as our moral theory of choice and explore its implementation in the real world.
Abstract:
A one-dimensional political spectrum is the simplest model with which to evaluate a particular movement or party.
In this video, we argue that considering the life cycle of norms from a Utilitarian perspective the two sides of the spectrum emerge naturally.
The utility of a social norm is linked to its environment of application, thus, it varies through time. Consequently, norms need to be continuously modified (preferably through a collegial mechanism that accounts for everybody's happiness) in order to maximize well-being.
The two sides of the aisle can then give voice respectively to the part of the population that would feel happier with the present norm and the part of the population that would prefer the new norm.
An understanding of this view could help in reducing political polarization.
Other thoughts or comments:
1) It should go without saying that the 1-dimensional model is not the most precise model we have to evaluate political positions.
Citations:
Negative Partisanship: Why Americans Dislike Parties But Behave Like Rabid Partisans, Alan I. Abramowitz, Steven W. Webster,
Advances in Political Psychology, Vol. 39, Suppl. 1, 2018
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