Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

When Planning Nuclear Waste Sites In Canada, Consider Ukraine’S Potential Nuclear Crisis, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article "When planning nuclear waste sites in Canada, consider Ukraine’s potential nuclear crisis" by Erika Simpson discusses the implications of nuclear waste management in Canada in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The author emphasizes the lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, particularly regarding the vulnerabilities of nuclear power plants during conflicts, such as the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The article highlights the challenges of safely storing and managing high-level nuclear waste in Canada, proposing sites near significant water basins like the Great Lakes and Hudson’s Bay. The author stresses the importance of involving local communities and …

Social Capital, Institutional Rules, And Constitutional Amendment Rates, William D. Blake, Joseph Francesco Cozza, David A. Armstrong Ii, Amanda Friesen

Political Science Publications

Why are some constitutions amended more frequently than others? The literature provides few clear answers, as some scholars focus on institutional factors, whereas others emphasize amendment culture. We bridge this divide with new theoretical and empirical insights. Using data from democratic constitutions worldwide and U.S. state constitutions, we examine how social capital reduces the transaction costs imposed by amendment rules. The results indicate that constitutional rigidity decreases amendment frequency, but group membership, civic activism, and political trust can offset the effect of amendment rules. Our findings have important implications for scholars in public law, constitutional and democratic theory, and social …

Nato Allies Should Take Canada’S Lead And Spend Less On Defense, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

In the article "NATO allies should take Canada’s lead and spend less on defense," Erika Simpson discusses Canada’s defense spending in relation to NATO’s two-percent-of-GDP target. Although Canada appears to lag in military spending when expressed as a percentage of GDP, it ranks high on a per capita basis. Simpson argues that NATO should consider Canada's broader contributions to peace and security, beyond just military expenditures. She highlights Canada’s new military spending commitments, including the purchase of F-35 fighter jets, and critiques the pressure from the U.S. for allies to meet the spending target. The article advocates for a reevaluation …

Nuclear Waste Abandonment Risks The Dangers Of Amnesia, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

This abstract discusses the proposed plan by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) to store Canada's nuclear waste in a deep geological repository (DGR) in northern Ontario, highlighting significant safety concerns. The NWMO's current strategy involves burying high-level nuclear waste underground at a site near Teeswater, Ontario, potentially impacting nearby communities and raising questions about long-term environmental and human health risks. Alternative approaches, such as a rolling stewardship model that allows for periodic retrieval and repackaging of nuclear waste, are proposed as safer alternatives. The abstract also addresses regulatory processes, public consultations, and international comparisons, underscoring the complex considerations involved …

Luck Egalitarianism And Non-Overlapping Generations, Elizabeth Finneron-Burns

Political Science Publications

This paper argues that there are good reasons to limit the scope of luck egalitarianism to co-existing people. First, I outline reasons to be sceptical about how “luck” works intergenerationally and therefore the very grounding of luck egalitarianism between non-overlapping generations. Second, I argue that what Kasper Lippert-Rasmussen calls the “core luck egalitarian claim” allows significant intergenerational inequality which is a problem for those who object to such inequality. Third, luck egalitarianism cannot accommodate the intuition that it might be required to leave future generations better off than we are, even if it would come at no cost to ourselves. …

Faith, Source Credibility, And Trust In Pandemic Information, Jianing Li, Amanda Friesen, Michael W. Wagner

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.

Are Saviour Siblings A Special Case In Procreative Ethics?, Elizabeth Finneron-Burns, Caleb Althorpe

Political Science Publications

Children conceived in order to donate biological material to save the life of an already existing child are known as 'saviour siblings'. The primary reasons that have been offered against the practice are: (i) creating a saviour sibling has negative impacts on the created child and (ii) creating a saviour child represents a wrongful procreative motivation of the parents. In this paper we examine to what extent the creation of saviour siblings actually presents a special case in procreative ethics. Although we do not deny that there is a unique feature present in the saviour sibling case—namely, that the child …

Introduction To The Special Issue -- Science In Politics: Methodological Innovations And Political Issues, Amanda Friesen, Aleksander Ksiazkiewicz, Rose Mcdermott

Political Science Publications

We introduce the Special Issue on Life Science in Politics: Methodological Innovations and Political Issues. This issue of Politics and the Life Sciences is focused on the use of life science theory and methods to study political phenomena and the exploration of the intersection of science and political attitudes. This issue is the third in a series of special issues funded by the Association for Politics and the Life Sciences that adheres to the Open Science Framework for registered reports. Pre-analysis plans are peer reviewed and given in-principle acceptance before data are collected and/or analyzed, and the articles are published …

The Global Implications Of Xi Jinping’S Formidable Power, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

This abstract examines recent developments within the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, highlighting its trajectory towards enhanced surveillance capabilities and centralized control. The CCP's emphasis on maintaining internal stability and ideological purity, exemplified by Xi's consolidation of power and suppression of dissent, raises concerns about the party's commitment to political reform and economic openness. The narrative explores implications for China's domestic governance, international relations—particularly regarding Taiwan—and global technological competition. It argues that while China's economic prowess continues to expand, its increasingly authoritarian governance under Xi Jinping poses challenges to global norms and multilateral institutions. …

Russia-Ukraine War Brings Nuclear Risk To Level Not Seen Since Cuban Missile Crisis, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The current Russian-Ukraine crisis is marked by escalating tensions and heightened nuclear threats, reminiscent of Cold War anxieties. Vladimir Putin's strategic maneuvers, including partial mobilization and veiled nuclear warnings, underscore a perilous geopolitical standoff. The risk of nuclear use, potentially greater than during the Cuban missile crisis, looms amid fears that Russia might resort to tactical nuclear weapons. International responses, from stark warnings by Western leaders to diplomatic appeals from global powers like China and India, emphasize efforts to prevent catastrophic escalation. Amidst military developments and societal opposition within Russia, the crisis underscores the delicate balance between deterrence and conflict …

Objectified And Dehumanized: Does Objectification Impact Perceptions Of Women Political Candidates?, Claire M. Gothreau, Amanda Milena Alvarez, Amanda Friesen

Political Science Publications

Objectification and dehumanization are topics often discussed within the social psychology and feminist theory literature. Research on objectification has largely focused on the sexual objectification of women’s bodies, whereas the dehumanization literature has focused on dehumanization in the context of racial and ethnic groups. Extant political science research has only recently begun to engage with these concepts. In this manuscript, we build upon these literatures and apply these insights to questions relevant to politics. In particular, we argue that objectifying and dehumanizing portrayals of women impact how voters evaluate women politicians and how much they support gender parity in politics. …

Nato’S New World Order Relies On Multilateralism To Strengthen Its Nuclear Defense Posture, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The recent NATO Summit in Madrid focused on countering Russia's threats involving weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) like nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, as well as cyber attacks. NATO reaffirmed its role as a nuclear alliance and emphasized a strategy combining nuclear, conventional, and missile defense capabilities, along with space and cyber defenses.

NATO aims to prevent nuclear use and enhance readiness against chemical and biological threats while supporting efforts for global nuclear disarmament under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. International efforts through NATO, the EU, and the UN are addressing nuclear proliferation and strengthening arms control agreements.

With over 12,700 …

Hostile, Benevolent, Implicit: How Different Shades Of Sexism Impact Gendered Policy Attitudes, Claire Gothreau, Kevin Arceneaux, Amanda Friesen

Political Science Publications

Advances in gender equality and progressive policies are often stymied by cultural sexist systems and individual-level sexist attitudes. These attitudes are pervasive but vary in type—from benevolent to hostile and implicit to explicit. Understanding the types of sexism and their foundations are important for identifying connections to specific social and political attitudes and behaviors. The current study examines the impact of various manifestations of sexism on attitudes regarding policies and public opinion issues that involve gender equality or have gendered implications. More specifically, we look at attitudes on reproductive rights, support for the #MeToo Movement, equal pay, and paid leave …

Understanding And Preventing Suicide Terrorism, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, driven by President Donald Trump’s supporters, highlighted severe vulnerabilities in democratic institutions and terrorism prevention. Ashli E. Babbitt, a rioter with military experience, became a martyr for far-right groups despite her personal struggles. The riot underscores the growing threat of domestic terrorism, with potential future attacks requiring robust prevention strategies. While social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook attempted to curb extremist rhetoric, broader measures are needed to address “lone wolf” terrorists. Current and past cases, from the Oklahoma City bombing to failed plots like the Michigan governor kidnapping, reveal the complexity of preventing …

Escalating Russian Cyber Attacks Could Risk Widening The War In Ukraine, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

"Escalating Russian Cyber Attacks Could Risk Widening the War in Ukraine" by R. Atkinson and E. Simpson discusses the increasing cyber operations conducted by Russia against Ukraine, which have significant implications for the broader conflict. The report highlights multiple destructive cyber attacks on Ukrainian government networks and critical infrastructure, including the deployment of malware such as WhisperGate and FoxBlade. These operations not only aim to disrupt essential services but also demonstrate a coordinated effort between cyber and conventional military strategies. The article stresses that NATO and its allies must bolster their cyber defenses to counter these threats and prevent potential …

New Ways Forward To Promote Peace In The Face Of Russia's Invasion, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

"Escalating Russian Cyber Attacks Could Risk Widening the War in Ukraine" by R. Atkinson and E. Simpson discusses the increasing cyber operations conducted by Russia against Ukraine. It details numerous cyber attacks on Ukrainian government networks and critical infrastructure, including the deployment of destructive malware such as WhisperGate and FoxBlade. These operations are part of a coordinated effort between cyber and conventional military strategies. The document emphasizes the need for NATO and its allies to enhance their cyber defenses to counter these threats and prevent potential escalation of the conflict beyond Ukraine's borders .

The document "New Ways Forward to …

Canada Must Strongly Support Marshall Plan 2.0, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

"Canada Must Strongly Support Marshall Plan 2.0" discusses the urgent need for a modernized Marshall Plan to aid Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The proposed plan aims to rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure, promote sustainable energy solutions, and enhance food security in alignment with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. The document highlights the critical role of international cooperation, with Canada positioned as a key leader in mobilizing support and resources. It emphasizes the necessity of immediate and substantial financial investment to prevent further devastation and foster a vision of peace and reconstruction for Ukraine.

The War In Ukraine Will Have Global Consequences, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The crisis in Ukraine has shown NATO’s commitment to its members while treating Ukraine and Georgia as partners. NATO won’t fight directly on Ukrainian soil but will protect its allies. The invasion has caused a major refugee crisis, with millions fleeing to neighboring countries like Moldova and Romania.

Countries like Canada are preparing to accept many Ukrainian refugees, given their large Ukrainian communities. Western nations are condemning Russia and imposing tough sanctions. There are also fears of nuclear escalation, similar to past Cold War tensions, prompting calls for new arms control talks.

This crisis threatens global peace and democracy, highlighting …

Opportunity To Rid Europe Of Dangerous Nuclear Weapon Systems And Provocative Force Deployments, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The crisis between Ukraine and Russia has brought NATO's role and diplomatic efforts to the forefront. NATO is committed to defending its members and supporting Ukraine and Georgia as partners, though their potential membership remains uncertain and requires consensus among NATO nations.

The conflict has caused a large refugee crisis, with many fleeing to neighboring countries. Diplomatically, leaked documents show NATO's approach to dialogue with Russia through the NATO-Russia Council, focusing on security and democratic issues.

Russia opposes NATO's eastward expansion, citing security concerns and unmet agreements like the 2014 Minsk Protocol. Discussions on reducing military tensions and promoting transparency …

Middle Powers And The U.S.-Iran Conflict, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The article "Middle Powers and the U.S.-Iran Conflict" by Erika Simpson examines the geopolitical ramifications of the Trump administration's targeted killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani. It explores Iran's military retaliation and the broader implications for Middle Eastern stability, including potential threats to NATO allies. The piece highlights the precarious position of middle powers like Canada, emphasizing their limited strategic options but potential role in advocating restraint and negotiation. The article also delves into the impact of the conflict on NATO unity, the potential for a power vacuum in Iraq, and the broader international legal and diplomatic challenges. It concludes …

Coding Appendix 1: Code Method And Code Lists, Cristine De Clercy, Alex Marland

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.

Ukraine Crisis, 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis Share Disturbing Similarities, Erika Vg Simpson Prof.

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.

Canadian-Organized Airlift Needed To Bring Food, Medical Provisions To Afghanistan, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.

Canadian-Organized Airlift Needed To Bring Food, Medical Provisions To Afghanistan, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The crisis in Afghanistan has raised concerns globally about NATO's role, humanitarian aid, and international responses. As the Taliban took control, questions about aid and refugee flows grew. The U.S. and NATO's withdrawal left behind advanced weapons now used by the Taliban, sparking criticism and discussions on global responsibilities.

Canada's past involvement and current debates on helping Afghans highlight challenges in international intervention and ethical duties. This crisis shows how complex geopolitics and human rights issues can be in conflict zones.

With uncertainty ahead for Afghanistan's future and implications for global security, the crisis reminds us of the challenges and …

Racial Limitations On The Gender, Risk, Religion & Politics Model, Amanda Friesen

Political Science Publications

Risk aversion dampens political participation and heightens religiosity, with concentrated effects among women. Yet, little is known about how intersecting identities moderate these psychological correlates of religiosity and political engagement. In this paper, we theorize that the risk-religion-politics relationship is gendered and racialized. Using a nationally representative survey, we show that political participation is more strongly correlated with risk for Black women than for any other race-gender group. For religiosity, however, we find little evidence that risk is related to religiosity among Black women, while highly correlated with white women's religious engagement. For men—whether Black or white—risk exhibits a modest, …

A Plea To Heed The Chorus Of Afghans Urging Canadian Aid, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

No abstract provided.

Why Buffer Zones Could Combat The Ongoing War In Afghanistan, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

Amidst escalating conflict in Afghanistan, there's a growing call for buffer zones or Zones of Peace (ZoPs). These would be safe areas around key cities to protect civilians and promote stability amid ongoing violence. The idea is to create safe havens, truce corridors, and temporary lifelines managed by neutral parties like the United Nations.

Buffer zones draw on past successes and aim to provide refuge, aid, and a chance for peace amidst the turmoil. They could help mitigate humanitarian crises and support local communities, showing potential for easing tensions and fostering stability in Afghanistan.

Commemorating The Hiroshima-Nagasaki Bombings And A Call For Nuclear Disarmament, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

This year marks 76 years since atomic bombs devastated Hiroshima and Nagasaki, highlighting the tragic impact on civilians. Debates continue on their role in Japan's surrender. The International Court of Justice urges global nuclear disarmament. Canadian groups like CNANW and CPRA push for disarmament amid ongoing modernization of nuclear arsenals. They call on Canada to prioritize disarmament, join treaties like the TPNW, and lead within NATO for a nuclear-free world. They stress the need for a strong security framework to prevent nuclear threats, inspired by survivors like Setsuko Thurlow.

Political Taste: Exploring How Perception Of Bitter Substances May Reveal Risk Tolerance And Political Preferences, Amanda Friesen

Political Science Publications

Risk is endemic to the political arena and influences citizen engagement. We explore this connection by suggesting that risk-taking may be biologically instantiated in sensory systems. With specific attention to gender and gender identity, we investigate the connections between self-reported bitter taste reception, risk tolerance, and both of their associations with political participation. In three U.S. samples collected in 2019 and 2020, participants were asked to rate their preferences from lists of foods as well as whether they detected the taste of the substance N-Propylthiouracil (PROP) and, if so, the strength of the taste. In this registered report, we find …

True Leadership Would See Trudeau Attend Nato Summit Virtually As Canadians Await Covid-19 Vaccines, Erika Simpson

Political Science Publications

The text provided highlights criticism of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's attendance at the NATO summit amidst ongoing domestic vaccination efforts. Drawing on the leadership example of Ernest Shackleton, it argues for prioritizing national COVID-19 vaccinations over international summitry. The piece critiques NATO's perceived symbolic nature and lack of substantive debate, contrasting it with Shackleton's leadership style during adversity. It advocates for global vaccine equity and questions the necessity of Trudeau's summit attendance amid completed negotiations.