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Brain scan
A study has shown a linke between brain structure and political allegiances. Photograph: Gandee Vasan/Getty
A study has shown a linke between brain structure and political allegiances. Photograph: Gandee Vasan/Getty

Political allegiances linked to brain structure, study finds

This article is more than 13 years old
Experiment reveals 'strong correlation' between thickness in two brain regions, the amygdala and the anterior cingulate, and political viewpoint

An experiment has found differences between the brains of progressives and conservatives.

Head scans of students at University College London, conducted by neuroscientist Geraint Rees, showed a "strong correlation" between thickness in two regions, the amygdala and the anterior cingulate, and political viewpoint.

Rees said he was "very surprised" by the finding because the experiment was a lighthearted item commissioned by Colin Firth for his guest-editing slot on BBC Radio 4's Today programme.

The actor has said he no longer supports the Lib Dems, and joked about Nick Clegg: "I think we should have him scanned."

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