This weekend I had some chats with it about society and between Reddit’s liberal user base and the recent article about its left-leaning bias, I asked it this:

Why is it that, in human societies there seems to be a polar relationship between liberal, urban communities and conservative, rural communities? Particularly, states’ rights seem to be more counter to constitutional interpretations of equality for all people. Is a lack of empathy at play here?

I got this response:

The distinction between urban and rural political leanings and values is a complex topic that has been extensively researched and debated. Several factors contribute to the differing perspectives and priorities of these communities. While some might frame it as a lack of empathy, the underlying dynamics are multifaceted:

1. *Economic Interests*: Urban areas often have diversified economies with a mix of industries, services, technology, and arts, while rural areas might be more dependent on specific industries like agriculture, mining, or manufacturing. These differing economic bases can shape political preferences, particularly around regulations, subsidies, and trade policies.

2. *Cultural Traditions*: Rural communities often have deep-rooted traditions and a stronger attachment to localized histories. A desire to preserve these traditions can manifest as resistance to rapid societal change, which is often perceived as originating from urban centers.

3. *Social Homogeneity*: Rural areas tend to be more socially homogenous compared to urban centers, which are typically more diverse in terms of race, religion, and ethnicity. Familiarity with diverse groups in urban settings might lead to more progressive views on social issues.

4. *Density and Infrastructure*: The sheer density of urban areas necessitates a different set of priorities. Urban centers often emphasize public transportation, housing policies, and environmental regulations, while rural areas prioritize issues like land use rights, agricultural policies, and infrastructure tailored to dispersed populations.

5. *Information Flow*: Urban areas usually have more media outlets, cultural institutions, and educational facilities, leading to a more varied flow of information and exposure to diverse viewpoints. On the other hand, rural areas, with limited sources of local news and perhaps less internet connectivity, might have a more narrow or localized information flow.

6. *States' Rights vs. Federal Power*: Historically, the debate between states' rights and federal authority has been rooted in many issues, from economic interests to cultural values. It's a balance of power struggle, with some believing that local (state) governance is more attuned to the unique needs of its population, while others argue for federal oversight to ensure consistency, particularly on civil rights issues.

7. *Empathy*: It's important to avoid oversimplifying the urban-rural divide as merely a matter of empathy. While differing levels of exposure to diverse groups can influence one's capacity for empathy, it's just one of many factors at play. Many rural communities emphasize neighborly support, community solidarity, and local charity, which are certainly empathetic qualities.

8. *Globalization and Modernization*: As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, many rural communities feel left behind by globalization, leading to a sense of disenfranchisement. Urban areas, being hubs of commerce and technology, often benefit more directly from globalization.

In essence, while there's a clear urban-rural political divide in many countries, it's a product of a myriad of social, economic, and cultural factors. Reducing it to a single cause or casting judgment oversimplifies the complexities and nuances at play. Building understanding and dialogue between these communities is essential for addressing shared challenges and forging a cohesive national identity.