9 Psychological Reasons Why Some People Support Corrupt and Criminal Politicians
In a world where politics plays a significant role in shaping societies, it is not uncommon to find people supporting criminal politicians who have questionable moral and ethical standards.
This article delves into the psychological reasons behind why some individuals lend their support to corrupt and criminal politicians, shedding light on the intricate factors that influence their choices.
Supporting politicians with a history of corruption and criminal activities may seem puzzling at first glance, but it is essential to understand that human behavior is complex and often influenced by a multitude of psychological and sociocultural factors.
To comprehend this phenomenon better, we’ll explore the psychological factors that drive such support.
Understanding Corruption in Politics
Definition of Corruption…
Corruption in politics involves the misuse of power for personal gain, often at the expense of the public good. This can encompass financial misconduct, embezzlement, bribery, or other forms of unethical behavior.
Different Types of Corruption
Corruption comes in various forms, such as grand corruption (involving high-ranking officials) and petty corruption (affecting everyday citizens). Understanding these distinctions is crucial for analyzing public support.
The Impact of Corruption
Corruption negatively affects society by undermining trust in government, diverting resources from essential services, and perpetuating inequality.
Despite these consequences, some still support corrupt politicians.
For example in Nigeria today, you still see and hear people supporting criminal and corrupt politicians including somebody like TInubu despite all the crime and criminalities associated with him.
You may be wondering why such should be, let’s go straight to the psychological reasons why these people behave the way they do.
9 Psychological Factors Behind Support for Corrupt and criminal Politicians
1.Cognitive Dissonance…is number one of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
People often experience cognitive dissonance when their beliefs clash with their actions.
Some may support corrupt politicians while acknowledging their wrongdoing, leading to psychological discomfort. Meaning that you can’t be a thief and at the same time condemning a fellow criminal. (Birds of the same feather flocks together)
2.The Halo Effect is number two of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
The halo effect occurs when people perceive one positive trait in a person and extend that positivity to other aspects of their character.
Corrupt politicians can exploit this by highlighting one or more positive qualities.
- Group Identity and Loyalty
Human beings have a strong need for belonging.
Individuals may support corrupt politicians if they identify with a specific group that endorses them, prioritizing loyalty over moral concerns.
3.Fear of Change..is number 3 of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians..
Change can be unsettling, and some individuals prefer the status quo, even if it means supporting a corrupt politician.
Fear of uncertainty can be a powerful motivator.
- Economic Self-Interest…..is number 4 of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
Supporting a corrupt politician may be driven by economic self-interest.
Some constituents believe they will benefit financially from the politician’s actions, even if they are corrupt.
5.Confirmation Bias…..is number five of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
People tend to seek information that confirms their existing beliefs and ignore contrary evidence.
Supporters of corrupt politicians may selectively process information that paints their chosen candidate in a positive light.
6.Manipulative Strategies Used by Corrupt Politicians….is number six of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians.
Corrupt politicians often use emotional appeals to sway their supporters. They play on people’s emotions to gain their trust and support.
7.Propaganda and Misinformation……is number seven of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
The spread of false information and propaganda can manipulate public perception, creating an environment where corruption is tolerated and even embraced.
8.Exploiting Fear and Uncertainty…..is number Eight of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
Corrupt politicians may exploit fear and uncertainty, making people believe that they are the only ones who can protect them from perceived threats.
- The Role of Social and Cultural Factors…..is number nine of 9 psychological reason some people support criminal and corrupt politicians
Support for corrupt politicians can also be influenced by social and cultural factors, including traditions, tribal ties, family ties, and local norms.
The Path to Overcoming Support for Corruption
Overcoming support for corrupt politicians requires addressing these psychological and sociocultural factors.
It involves promoting transparency, education, and fostering a sense of civic responsibility.
Understanding the psychological reasons behind support for corrupt and criminal politicians is essential for addressing this issue.
By acknowledging these factors, we can work toward a more ethical and accountable political landscape.
- Can people genuinely believe that corrupt politicians are good for the country?
- Yes, some people may genuinely believe that corrupt politicians serve their interests or the country’s interests, despite their corrupt actions.
- How can society combat support for corrupt politicians?
- By promoting transparency, educating citizens, and fostering a sense of civic responsibility, we can work toward reducing support for corrupt politicians.
- Is it possible to change the minds of those who support corrupt politicians?
- Changing someone’s political beliefs is challenging, but through open and respectful dialogue and providing accurate information, change is possible.
- What is the role of the media in influencing support for corrupt politicians?
- The media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion. Biased or sensationalist reporting can influence support for corrupt politicians.
- Can cultural factors outweigh the negative aspects of supporting corrupt politicians?
- Cultural and ethnicity factors can indeed also influence support for a criminal politician.