Politics as a Social Compass: Political Versus Lifestyle Preferences in Social Interactions

Abstract This study examines how explicitly political preferences, such as party support and issue positions, influence social interactions relative to lifestyle and cultural preferences that may be more immediate in people's daily lives. Using conjoint analysis, we assess the relative impact of factors such as political party preferences, issue stances, musical taste, restaurant choices, and football team fandom on social preferences in the Czech Republic. While political preferences (particularly agreement or disagreement on party support) are key drivers of social interactions among politically engaged individuals, cultural and lifestyle preferences also exert notable influence. Our findings suggest that although political factors often dominate, their salience varies depending on levels of political interest. By testing political preferences alongside everyday lifestyle and cultural factors, this study provides a more nuanced understanding of the diverse influences that shape social interactions in contemporary society.