I have very strong opinions about the invasion of iraq, public education, taxes, church&state, 2nd amendment etc.. , but I've never got into an argument with an

I have very strong opinions about the invasion of iraq, public education, taxes, church&state, 2nd amendment etc.. , but I've never got into an argument with anyone about those them because I felt that they had a material impact on my life. It was all about identity for me. Material impact is certainly a factor. I have seen people who oppose the kyoto treaty because they were employed at a coal-fired power plant, but these are exceptions. If you believe the thesis that social issues such as flag burning and gay marriage lead poor voters to vote against their material interests then you have another case where identity trumps impact, at least in voting decisions.