Low IQ + Wingnuttery = Bigotry

We already knew this, but now a new study has distilled it down to an equation.   Basically:  dumber-than-dirt child grows up (chronologically that is) and is attracted to conservative ideas.  The most appealing parts of conservatism — for dumbfucks — are resistance to change and the idea of a hierarchy.

After being mesmerized by these rightwing soundbites, Mr. or Ms. Bone-Stupid becomes part of the hierarchy, and — Presto!  “Hey, we got us a pecking order, and them dark-skinned folks is lower than me, huh huh huh uh uh uh.”

These findings came from a study at Brock University in Ontario, which was conducted by Gordon Hodson.  Among other things, the study found that people of limited intelligence generally have less contact with other ethnic groups.  Gordon Hodson said:

“This finding is consistent with recent research demonstrating that intergroup contact is mentally challenging and cognitively draining, and consistent with findings that contact reduces prejudice.”

He also said that solid unbending rightwing beliefs are appealing to those who have trouble grasping the world’s complexities:

“Socially conservative ideologies tend to offer structure and order.  Unfortunately, many of these features can also contribute to prejudice.”

Another psychologist, Brian Nosek — who was not involved in the study — said:

“They've pulled off the trifecta of controversial topics.  When one selects intelligence, political ideology and racism and looks at any of the relationships between those three variables, it's bound to upset somebody.”

Gee, ya think?  I’m guessing one of two things will happen:  This story will be suppressed and ignored, or the shit will hit the fan.