Balance Theory and Political Cognitions

Abstract

The CPS 1972-1976 panel is employed to test numerous principles of balance theory on Americans' political cognitions. Evidential support is found for Heider's original formulation of balance theory pertaining to dichotomous variables comprising a triad and extensions of this theory to structures of more than three cognitions, and variables measured at the interval level. Political reality effects, rational policy evaluation processes, and alternative psychological perspectives cannot adequately explain our data patterns. Other findings are: people attain balance in diverse ways by changing any of their cognitions; the more politically sophisticated are more affected by balance processes; balance theory has implications for the vote decision. The implications of the study for the nature of American democracy are also addressed.