Expansion or Constriction? A Comparison of Indicators

As we reintroduce the quadrants models from earlier, we first want to emphasize crucial differences between these general models relative to candidate and voting likelihood. PFCI-SMS is used most extensively because it is a differentiator of voting and because it relates to positive values that bridge many social and personal value sets.

Social Material Stress (SMS) scale

The SMS scale emphasizes personal and social condition more than values and belies and thus is very complimentary with other measurements of values and beliefs, such as PFCI or STRC. Here we see that low SMS relates to greater "ease" in terms of functioning in our society. The lower social, psychological or material stress, the more likely they are to vote and choose a candidate for president. The higher on the SMS scale, the less likely. When applied to candidate choice, regardless of likelihood of voting, there is no discernible difference in candidate choice.

Social Traditional Religious Conservative (STRC) index

The STRC index emphasizes two closely related sets of values: social traditionalism and religiousness with conservatism and lack of tolerance. It is a differentiator of voting likelihood to the extent that "traditional" social values include a sense of responsibility to vote. Over recent decades, the Republican party has allied itself with "God and country" themes as well as conservative personal and family issues, thus engineering a dynamic for itself using STRC values.

Positive Future Integrative Cooperative (PFCI) scale

The PFCI scale emphasizes closely related sets of values of a different sort: Desire for a positive, life-affirming future, cooperation and a recognition of the interconnectedness of life with spirituality that is not tied to any religion. This scale demonstrates a set of values that have powerful bridging qualities. It too differentiates between candidate and other choices.