Part 4/10:
The most common explanation posited for why beliefs align along this spectrum is the essentialist theory of politics. This perspective suggests that an individual's political views can be distilled into a singular essence based on their desire for change: if you seek change, you belong to the left; if you resist change, you belong to the right. This idea creates an illusion that one’s positions on diverse issues can be understood through a single essential parameter.
However, equating political beliefs with astrology—where one's characteristics are dictated by birth month—highlights the absurdity of this theory. Just as astrology categorizes personalities based on a simplistic model, the essentialist theory of politics oversimplifies the complex web of human beliefs and positions.