A study of more than 5,000 American couples shows that most people marry only those whose political views align with their own. “It turns out that people place more emphasis on finding a mate who is a kindred spirit with regard to politics, religion, and social activity than they do on finding someone of like physique or personality,” says John Alford, associate professor of political science at Rice University and lead author of the study published in the Journal of Politics. “It suggests that, perhaps, if you’re looking for a long-term romantic relationship, skip ‘What’s your sign?’ and go straight to ‘Obama or Palin?’” Alford adds. “And if you get the wrong answer, just walk away.”
