Measuring Elite Personality Using Speech

Forthcoming, Political Science Research and Methods

88 Pages Posted: 14 May 2015 Last revised: 26 Feb 2016

See all articles by Adam Ramey

Adam Ramey

New York University Abu Dhabi

Jonathan Klingler

University of Mississippi

Gary Hollibaugh

University of Pittsburgh - Graduate School of Public & International Affairs

Date Written: February 15, 2016

Abstract

We apply recent advances in machine learning to measure Congressmember personality traits using floor speeches from 1996-2014. We also demonstrate the superiority of text-based measurement over survey-based measurement by showing that personality traits are correlated with survey response rates for members of Congress. Finally, we provide one empirical application showcasing the importance of personality on Congressional behavior.

Keywords: machine learning, political psychology, Congress, text analysis

Suggested Citation

Ramey, Adam and Klingler, Jonathan and Hollibaugh, Gary, Measuring Elite Personality Using Speech (February 15, 2016). Forthcoming, Political Science Research and Methods, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2605644 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2605644

Adam Ramey (Contact Author)

New York University Abu Dhabi ( email )

PO Box 129188
Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates

Jonathan Klingler

University of Mississippi ( email )

237 Deupree Hall
University, MS 38677
United States

HOME PAGE: http://www.jonathandklingler.com

Gary Hollibaugh

University of Pittsburgh - Graduate School of Public & International Affairs ( email )

Pittsburgh, PA 15260-0001
United States

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