This one gene might decide if you vote Republican or Democrat

Researchers in Singapore have linked variance in a single gene to political leanings. The gene in question, DRD4, is concerned with the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter chemical in the brain. And the gene's presence or absence correlated with study participants' leftward focus on inequality or rightward interest in preserving stability.

This link between genes and politics was observed most strongly in women. "The association between political attitude and DRD4 was highly significant for females," researchers noted, and less clear among men.

While this specific study was conducted on more than 1,700 college students of Han Chinese descent, it builds on the results of earlier research, which tied the same gene to political leanings in people of European origin.

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up