Political motivation: A referent evaluation mathematical model

Mathematical modelling is popular in cognitive psychology because it enables clear and formal descriptions of the processes at play; yet, this approach has rarely been applied to political psychology. Here we adopt mathematical develop a theory motivation, which central concept The assumes that, certain contexts, individuals entertain set representations society, for example past, present future (but also fictive societies such as utopias). To each representation an incentive value attached not absolute, but (following theories motivation psychology) reference-dependent; namely, dependent on context, corresponding whole society. In turn, model proposes that these subjective values determine two aspects: performing appropriate action ensuing mood. We discuss with respect theoretical empirical research (and examine Marx Engel’s communist manifesto latter). short, offer new perspective emphasises role multiple society determining