Does Charisma count for too much in politics?

Question

Do we put too much emphasis on likability instead of the type of choices the person will make when voting?

Answer 1

Yes.  There is a concept known as "low information" voting and the powers that be rely heavily on tapping into that constituency, because they can be sold on things like personality and "values issue."  Whether or not someone wears a flag lapel pin is another example of a low information issue.  Still, even the best ideas require some selling, so charisma does count - it just shouldn't count so much.

Answer 2

Yes.

Answer 3

That is the way it seems to be . JF Kennedy, Bill Clinton, etc..

had such charisma.GW Busch was more charismatic than Kerry, but he was on edge against ALL Gore.

Answer 4

Of course we do.  All Kerry talked about 4 years ago was that he had a plan but he never said what the plan was.  Charisma seems to be the basic quality of any democratic presidential contender and the republicans are either much better at using it or don't use it much at all.

Answer 5

Absolutely. I now make a point of never listening to debates and speeches. I read the platforms and transcripts instead. This helps me focus on the particulars (if any) and not be swayed by a charismatic presentation.

Answer 6

yes their that is a good way to explain lol bye

: )

Answer 7

I agree with you.  In the US, since the Kennedy-Nixon debates, the Presidential Candidates have been marketed to used like a new car.  TV makes the appearance of the person seem so much more important than what they say.  People are geared from birth to like more attractive people, with regular features, so one study shows.  

I don't really know what the candidates think, because all I get is soundbites.

Answer 8

Not just charisma. Also height (compared to the opposition) and hair. Honestly. You have much less chance of being elected if you're balding. It's not 100% but it's measurable. Different cultures respond in different ways too... but that's a lot more depressing than just charisma. At least charisma could be a valuable trait.