When reading some recent comments about Gareth Southgate, I noticed a pattern. Those who were particularly nasty towards him used terms like “Wokegate” to be derogatory, similar to how they speak about politicians or other disliked figures.

Upon examining the profiles of those who claimed they could manage better than Southgate and expressed intense dislike, a similar demographic emerged. These individuals appeared impulsive, angry, and prone to offering simple solutions to complex issues in both football and politics. They generally harboured a lot of hate, some of it laughable, some of it disturbing

I suspect this animosity stems from Southgate’s past admission that he was a Remain voter who couldn’t fathom the logic behind leaving a long-standing geopolitical and trading union. Additionally, his logical and thoughtful managerial style contrasts sharply with the more aggressive, “three lions” approach some fans desire, despite its repeated failings.

The Brain’s Role in Decision-Making

As you would imagine, our decision-making process is primarily governed by the brain, specifically the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala. The prefrontal cortex is like a wise old owl, managing logical reasoning and self-control, whereas the amygdala acts more like an impulsive teenager, driven by emotions such as excitement and fear.

Impulsive individuals often have a prefrontal cortex that isn’t fully engaged, allowing the amygdala to dominate. In contrast, logical thinkers have a prefrontal cortex that keeps the amygdala in check, ensuring well-thought-out decisions. Now you have read that, you will see it more and more in the people you have the fortune or misfortune to engage with.

Personality and Temperament

Of course, personality plays a significant role in decision-making. Conscientious individuals tend to make logical decisions, planning sensibly and adhering to their plans. Those high in neuroticism are more likely to let emotions drive their impulsive choices, which can be detrimental to themselves and those around them.

From a young age, some people are naturally cautious and risk-averse, while others seek adventure and new experiences. These tendencies can influence whether a person is more logical or impulsive. Over time, people often reflect on impulsive decisions and recognise their foolishness. However, some remain in denial and repeat their mistakes, which appears ignorant and resistant to evolution as they age. They think they are voices of reason whilst many people simply think they are a bit of a twat.

Social and Environmental Influences

Our upbringing also significantly shapes our decision-making styles. Growing up in a stable, supportive environment fosters logical thinking, while chaotic or stressful settings may push someone toward impulsive behavior. For example, being raised in a large, chaotic household often led me to make impulsive decisions, a realisation I had only in hindsight in later years. People who shoot from the hip often don’t know there is another way of dealing with things, at least until the ol’ cortex evolves.

Cultural influences also matter and I can see that. Some cultures purposely celebrate spontaneity and individualism, leading to more impulsive decisions. The “I’m alright, Jack” culture promoted during the Thatcher years in the UK is a good example. The same can be said of the US. In contrast, Scandinavian countries tend to promote the value of careful planning and collectivism, promoting logical approaches to life’s challenges.

Psychological Factors and the Role of Drugs and Alcohol

Past experiences and mental health may also play crucial roles. Traumatic experiences or chronic stress can impair the prefrontal cortex, making logical thinking much harder to embrace. Conditions like ADHD or bipolar disorder are associated with higher impulsivity. If you have had to deal with those issues amongst family or friends, you will know how disruptive it is.

Practicing mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques can enhance logical thinking, balancing impulsive reactions with reasoned decisions. While impulsivity is sometimes necessary for quick thinking, overly logical approaches can lead to missed opportunities for spontaneous fun. The key is finding a balance that allows for both excitement and sensible thought.

Alcohol and drugs significantly affect decision-making. Alcohol lowers inhibitions and impairs the prefrontal cortex, giving the amygdala free rein. This is why people make impulsive decisions they wouldn’t consider sober. Drugs have similar effects, amplifying impulsivity and clouding judgment, often leading to trouble at football matches and other events.

Voting for Populist Parties

Impulsivity also influences political choices. Populist parties offer simple solutions to complex problems, appealing to impulsive individuals. High emotions—due to economic stress, social issues, or modern life’s chaos—drive these voters towards easy answers, ignoring nuanced, long-term consequences. This phenomenon explains terms like “Bar Stool Fascist,” where alcohol-affected individuals spout misguided opinions, mistaking impulsive reactions for reasoned thought.

It is far more like that logical thinkers with a prefrontal cortex under control, will have political tendencies that aren’t attracted to far-right ideologies. Impulsive thinkers may well see people like Boris Johnson and Donald Trump as voices of reason with a ‘Get it Done’ attitude. Politicians on the centre right or left, are regarded as woke or snowflakes who are too weak to make rash decisions. It’s dangerous if it takes hold, as we can see with a few glances at 20th Century geopolitics.

Finding the Balance

From what I’ve read (though I’m no psychologist), excessive impulsivity leads to regrettable decisions. This has been true in my life, and likely for many readers. Conversely, being overly logical can mean missing out on spontaneous fun. The trick is finding a sweet spot that allows for both excitement and sensible thought.

For impulsive individuals, techniques like mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral strategies can enhance self-control. Logical thinkers might try embracing spontaneity, finding ways to inject adventure into their lives. Knowing you have a problem with one or the other obviously helps. Personally, when I find impulse bursting out of me, I try to force myself to stop and allow logic to take over.

Sometimes I don’t see it but here’s a thing. When I say something impulsive, I often feel a bit of a twat after. Then other times I regret letting the logic take control. I saw a former Ukip leader in the village shop the other day and spent the evening regretting not calling him a fascist. The problem is, if I had it would have probably coursed a ‘Little England’ type scene, so I remain conflicted between impulse and logic.

Conclusion

Whether you jump in without a second thought or meticulously plan every detail, understanding what drives these tendencies can lead to more balanced decision-making. Embracing both our inner thrill-seeker and thoughtful planner allows us to make better choices.

In the voting booth or when critiquing a football manager, balancing logic with passion might be the key to making the best decisions for ourselves and future generations. Remember, populist politicians look to exploit those with underperforming prefrontal cortexes, manipulating them for personal gain.

The real question is whether some people with damaged or malfunctioning prefrontal cortexes will ever recognise this and change. If someone believes they are the voice of reason (like many Donald Trump followers), why would they alter their ways?

This is a question I can’t answer. I guess the best thing to do is try not to be a spiteful cunt and you won’t go far wrong.