THE MORAL PSYCHOLOGY OF POLITICAL ACTIVISM: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This literature review examines the role of moral psychology in political activism. It is generally understood that different cultures and other social subgroups value some moral tenets over others, which impacts individual morals. This review aims to isolate the effect moral psychology and moral thinking have on actions, rather than the actual descriptive contents of the morals themselves. Moral psychology within the realm of activism can help us understand, in our forever evolving social world, the shared humanity of those with differing moral and political principles. Using research and literature on moral psychology and motivations for activism, I lay out how moral psychology plays a distinctive role in inspiring activism regardless of the specific beliefs of an individual, showing how even some of the more extreme displays of political radicalism may be defended by moral beliefs. Lastly, this review explores how morals can be leveraged and perhaps exploited for political gain. My conclusion is that, from an action or goal-oriented perspective, moral emotions have the power to universally drive political participation across the ideological spectrum.