WOMEN IN POLITICS: THE GENDER DIFFERENCE IN VOTERS' PREFERENCES

The dearth of women leaders in fields such as politics, education, business, et al., has been a topic in several essays and studies, wherein the motives of those appointed to assign such leadership roles are questioned, as well as the rationale of those who vote on choices between male and female aspirants. Cited in this paper are some studies that purport to elucidate the perceived differences between men and women, or even male and female children, when it comes to leadership potential. Among these differences are noted characteristics such as physical height, intellectual abilities, and/or emotional qualities.

In this study we explore the demographics of voters and how these can possibly explain why women are largely overlooked or even rejected, in particular as political leaders. We question whether people vote heuristically and/or operate under stereotypical perceptions regarding female intellect, and whether demographics such as religion, education, political viewpoints, etc., steer voters away from female contenders for political leadership positions.

Central to this paper is the evolutionary perspective that explains why female leadership is slow to catch up to that of men.