06-24 – Mind and Politics: How the Authoritarian Personality Shapes Perception of Gender and Ethnic Diversity in Face Ensembles

Our perceptions of our social world are not always an accurate reflection of reality. Indeed, recent research has shown systematic misperceptions of minority social groups within society (e.g., an overestimation of immigrants). This bias is mirrored in ensemble perception tests, whereby judgments of minority groups as part of ensembles are typically overestimated. Research has observed a relationship between cognitive inflexibility, conservativism, and real-world perceptions associated with these traits and ideologies (e.g., attitudes toward ‘Brexit’). The key aim of this research is to investigate the possible cognitive and perceptual signatures driving these misperceptions. This present study will expand on the above research to assess whether authoritarian traits and cognitive inflexibility influence ensemble perceptions featuring politically salient groups. It is hypothesized that those scoring more highly in authoritarianism and inflexibility will show larger biases and greater hesitation in making judgments concerning the gender and ethnicity of face ensembles. This research will make an important and timely contribution to our understanding of how one’s cognition and traits may influence their perception of news coverage concerning social and political issues. This is especially pertinent in the age of misinformation and ‘fake news’ produced to heighten fear and division among society for political ends.