Authoritarian leaders and self-control by their population

Abstract

Causal studies show that brain networks of self-control can be changed by various forms of learning and stimulation. One mechanism of these changes is improved connectivity in the brain networks related to control. Evidence suggests that authoritarian contriol is largely supported by people with regidity of thought, but whether rigidity is caused by authoritarianism is not known. In this paper we hypothesize that authoritarianism can reduce the opportunity for conflict resolution that is an important mechanism for improved connectivity in control networks. Evidence suggests that reduced connectivity results in impairment in cognitive and emotional control resulting in likely reduction in IQ, less ability to control emotions and to resolve conflict between competing thoughts and actions. To test our hypothesis of a causal link to authoritarianism one could provide evidence preferable before and after authoritarian governments are implemented that there is a predicted loss of of abilty to control conflict, educational attainment or IQ by the relevant population. Tests of education attainment or IQ would also have alternative reasons such as changes in the educational system or reduced income. This paper proved evidence of a possible mechanism by which the brain could change under authoritarian rule and a hypothesis that requires further tests that authoritarian leaders can cause a loss of self-control in brains of both developing individuals and adults living in their countries.