What Conservatives Dream About

Considering those are some of the most common dream themes in general, this doesn't surprise me.

I always thought conservatives dreamed of electric sheep.

I suppose age may have something to do with it. When I was a teenager I used to have dreams - nightmares - a lot. I never had a wet-dream though. I would go to sleep some-what in anticipation and end up dreaming about getting gang-beat and dumped in a ditch for dead.

Campbed - It's true that the sample size is pretty small, but a quick look at the article shows they used standardized scales (Kerlinger Social Attitude Statement Scale, KJP Dream Scale) and the results were significant even with a small sample.

More importantly, their findings match the findings of a large number of studies that find a relationship between personality and political views. This is mainstream science and well known.

The main point is that we think we chose our political views based on good arguments, but a great deal of research indicate that the reverse is the case: We are predisposed to a certain political leaning (largely based on genetics), and then find ways to justify it so it appears we made a rational and intentional choice.

As I said, this is just another piece in that puzzle, and the consequences do have a real life impact.

For instance, realizing that we all have leanings mainly based on genetics, I find a much greater appreciation for the different views out there. This diversity has helped us through our evolution as a species, and continue to help us through diverse political opinions. They are all needed.

Somewhat related anecdote: I smoked cannabis daily for 7-8 years and never dreamed. I've recently quit and started dreaming again, quite vividly, every night after about 2 weeks. I've done a little informal survey and none of the people who indulge on a regular basis dream, either. (Admittedly, this may be due to lack of short term memory.)

Now, where's my research grant??