What causes political polarization? A new study shows that people who share a political ideology have more similar 'neural fingerprints' of political words and process new information in similar ways. Discover how the brain receives and processes new information to create ideological stories, shedding light on political polarization.

Are you constantly scrolling through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook? Do you find yourself captivated by the power of social media to influence our daily lives? If so, the study of Social Media might be the perfect field for you to explore at university undergraduate level. Social Media is a rapidly-growing field of study that explores the impact of social media on society, politics, economics, and culture. It's a fascinating field that incorporates a wide range of interesting and meaningful aspects of the topic, from the psychology behind social media addiction to the ethics of online privacy. In recent years, there has been an explosion of research and innovation in the field of Social Media, with academics exploring everything from the role of social media in political campaigns to the impact of social media on mental health. Some of the most inspiring academic discourse in this field has come from figures such as danah boyd, who has done groundbreaking research on the intersection of social media and youth culture, and Sherry Turkle, who has explored the impact of technology on our relationships. At the undergraduate level, students typically take courses in areas such as Social Media Marketing, Digital Storytelling, and Online Communities. There are also opportunities for further specialization in areas such as Social Media Analytics and Social Media Management. Some interesting and enticing examples of real-life specializations include working as a Social Media Manager for a major fashion brand, or becoming a Social Media Analyst for a political campaign. The study of Social Media can lead to a wide range of potential future jobs and roles, including Social Media Manager, Digital Marketing Strategist, and Online Community Manager. Key industries for prospective future employment include advertising, public relations, and journalism. Notable potential employers from the public and private sectors around the world include companies such as Google, Facebook, and the United Nations. To succeed in the field of Social Media, it's helpful to have strong communication skills, an interest in technology and marketing, and a passion for understanding how social media shapes our world. If you're interested in exploring this exciting field further, consider studying Social Media at university undergraduate level.

Despite the increasing availability of knowledge and expertise, many people continue to reject expert advice as they fall prey to misinformation. This paradox of ignorance has significant implications for society, from public health to politics. But why do we reject expertise even when we need it? Biases have a role to play in this, such as the Dunning-Kruger Effect. This is a cognitive bias where unskilled individuals overestimate their abilities and knowledge, while highly skilled individuals underestimate theirs. This can lead to a dangerous overconfidence in one's own expertise especially in non-experts, and thus a dismissal of others' advice and knowledge. Another factor influencing the rejection of expert advice is the role of identity and group dynamics. We are more likely to trust those who share our values and beliefs, and less likely to trust those who do not. This can lead to a rejection of expert advice that conflicts with our group's values or beliefs. Furthermore, the influence of social media and echo chambers can amplify misinformation, forming a closed network that is hard for accurate information to penetrate through. The consequences of rejecting expertise can be seen in many areas, from the anti-vaccination movement to climate change denial. But there are steps we can take to combat this paradox of ignorance, such as promoting critical thinking and media literacy, and building bridges between experts and the public. Some resources that could enhance your understanding of ignorance include the works of Steven Novella, who is a proponent of scientific skepticism (questioning the veracity of scientific claims which lack empirical evidence), and former professor of US national security affairs Tom Nichols, who tackles the dangers of anti-intellectualism in The Death of Expertise by Tom Nichols. In conclusion, the paradox of ignorance highlights the need for increased critical thinking and media literacy, as well as efforts to bridge the gap between experts and the public. By understanding the factors that contribute to the rejection of expertise, we can work towards a more informed and engaged society, better equipped to tackle the challenges we face.

A new Brown University study reveals that people with a low tolerance for uncertainty tend to hold more extreme political views, with the same neural mechanisms driving liberals and conservatives into their respective camps. The findings suggest that factors beyond political beliefs themselves can influence an individual's ideological biases, potentially leading to animosity and misunderstanding in society. Discover the surprising and solvable factors that shape our perception of political reality in this groundbreaking research.

Are you curious about how attitudes are formed and how they can be changed? The third edition of this book explores the latest scientific methods used to understand attitudes, with a balanced consideration of all approaches. From diverse research threads across the world, this book provides fundamental concepts to better understand attitudes. Discover the flurry of research activity in this dynamic subject over the past few years and gain insight into the complexities of human behavior. Recommended for psychology students, social scientists, and anyone interested in understanding human behavior, this book provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific methods used to study attitudes. Professionals in fields such as marketing, politics, and social advocacy can benefit from the insights gained into how attitudes can be influenced and changed. This book also has relevance for those interested in personal growth and self-reflection, as it explores the complexities of attitudes and how they shape our perceptions and actions.

Can you distinguish between real and fake news on social media? MIT scholars found that the act of considering whether to share news items reduces people's ability to tell truths from falsehoods by 35%. Learn more about the essential tension between sharing and accuracy in the realm of social media, and the potential implications for online news consumption.

Are you a fan of cute animal posts on social media? Have you ever wondered why they make you go "awwww"? A team of researchers at the University of Maryland has been studying the impact of cuteness on our emotions and behaviors, and how it can be used to manipulate us. Their findings, published in Frontiers in Psychology, offer fascinating insights into the science of cuteness, including a recipe for achieving ultimate cuteness. Read on to discover the implications of this research for society, disinformation and national security. (Source: University of Maryland)

In academic settings, arguments are often used to convince others of a particular point of view. However, not all arguments are created equal. The success of an argument depends on understanding the audience's beliefs, trusted sources, and values. Mathematical and logical arguments work well because they rely on shared beliefs, but disagreements that involve outside information often come down to what sources and authorities people trust. When disagreements can't be settled with statistics or evidence, making a convincing argument may depend on engaging the audience's values. The challenge is to correctly identify what's important to people who don't already agree with us. Engaging in discussion and being exposed to counter-arguments can help make our own arguments and reasoning more convincing. By understanding the elements that make arguments successful, students can become more effective communicators and critical thinkers in both academic and real-world settings.

In the world of risk and prediction, are you a hedgehog or a fox? The philosopher Isaiah Berlin wrote about the two animals, with the hedgehog knowing one big thing and the fox knowing many things. Political scientist Philip Tetlock found that foxes were better at predicting than hedgehogs, who were too confident in their forecasts. To be a good forecaster, one needs to be open to new knowledge, have insight into biases, and be willing to acknowledge uncertainty and change their minds. Rather than saying what will happen, good forecasters give probabilities for future events. So, are you willing to be a fox and adapt to changing circumstances, or will you be a hedgehog and stick to one overarching way of looking at the world? By being a fox, you can improve your ability to predict and make better decisions for the future.

Is social media a tool for social cohesion or social division? Learn from Annenberg School for Communication Associate Professors Sandra González-Bailón and Yphtach Lelkes as they take stock of the existing studies and reveal what we know to date. Discover how social media affects our networks, public discourse, and political contexts, and how toxic language and hostility dominate social platforms. Explore the positive and negative effects of social media on social cohesion and polarization, and how policy changes can improve the situation.

Have you ever wondered why people from different parts of the world act and live so differently? In "The Culture Code," cultural anthropologist and marketing expert Clotaire Rapaille reveals the secret techniques he has used for decades to help companies like Chrysler, Procter & Gamble, and L'Oréal improve their practices and profitability. Rapaille's groundbreaking notion is that we acquire a silent system of Codes as we grow up within our culture, which invisibly shape how we behave in our personal lives. By decoding two dozen of our most fundamental archetypes, Rapaille gives us "a new set of glasses" to view our actions and motivations, providing unprecedented freedom over our lives. Recommended for anyone interested in understanding the hidden clues to human behavior and the factors that shape our actions and motivations. This book might be particularly relevant to students of anthropology, marketing, psychology, sociology, and cultural studies, as well as professionals in business, advertising, and international relations. It also appeals to anyone curious about cultural differences and the impact of culture on our daily lives. The Culture Code provides a fascinating look at how our cultural background shapes our behavior and offers practical insights into how we can decode these cultural codes to achieve a better understanding of ourselves and others.

Politics is everywhere. It affects the way we live, work, and interact with others. And if you're interested in understanding the power dynamics that shape our world, then Political Science is the perfect field of study for you. Political Science is a social science that deals with the study of government, politics, and public policy. It's a fascinating field that combines history, philosophy, economics, and sociology to help us understand how governments work, how policies are made, and how power is distributed. In Political Science, you'll learn about the different forms of government, from democracies to dictatorships, and how they function. You'll explore the role of political institutions, such as parliaments, courts, and the media, and how they influence policy decisions. You'll also examine the impact of globalization, international relations, and human rights on political systems. One of the most exciting aspects of Political Science is the research and innovation that takes place in the field. From studying the impact of social media on political campaigns to analyzing the effectiveness of different voting systems, Political Science is constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges. Some of the most well-known academic figures in Political Science include Francis Fukuyama, who famously wrote about the "end of history," and Robert Putnam, who coined the term "social capital" to describe the networks of trust and cooperation that underpin successful societies. At the undergraduate level, Political Science majors typically take courses in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. You can also specialize in areas such as political economy, environmental politics, or human rights. With a degree in Political Science, you'll be well-prepared for a range of careers in the public and private sectors. You could work in government, as a policy analyst, diplomat, or elected official. Or you could work in the private sector, as a lobbyist, consultant, or analyst for a think tank. Some of the most notable employers in this field include the United Nations, the World Bank, and major political parties around the world. To succeed in Political Science, you'll need to be curious, analytical, and passionate about social justice. You should also have strong writing and research skills, as well as an ability to think critically about complex issues. If you're ready to explore the fascinating world of politics and policy, then Political Science is the perfect field of study for you.

Are you interested in politics? Do you have a passion for strategy, communication, and leadership? If so, Political Campaign Management may be the perfect field of study for you! Political Campaign Management is the art and science of running political campaigns, from local elections to national campaigns. It involves developing and executing a winning strategy, managing a team, and communicating effectively with voters. Political Campaign Managers are the masterminds behind successful political campaigns, and they play a crucial role in shaping the future of our society. In Political Campaign Management, you'll learn about the latest research, innovations, and academic discourse in the field. You'll study the strategies and tactics used by successful campaigns, and you'll learn from well-known academic figures who have made significant contributions to the field. For example, you might study the work of David Axelrod, who helped Barack Obama win the presidency in 2008 and 2012, or the research of Dr. Shanto Iyengar, who has studied the impact of media on political campaigns. At the undergraduate level, you'll typically take courses in Political Science, Communications, and Marketing. You'll learn about topics such as campaign finance, polling, message development, and voter mobilization. After graduation, you might specialize in a particular area, such as digital marketing or grassroots organizing. There are many potential career paths for graduates of Political Campaign Management. You might work on a political campaign as a Campaign Manager, Communications Director, or Field Organizer. You could also work in government or advocacy organizations, helping to shape public policy. Some popular employers in this field include the Democratic National Committee, the Republican National Committee, and consulting firms like GMMB and AKPD Message and Media. To succeed in Political Campaign Management, you'll need a combination of personal attributes, skills, and subject interests. You should be passionate about politics and have a deep understanding of the issues facing our society. You should also be a strong communicator, able to craft compelling messages and build relationships with voters. And you should be a strategic thinker, able to develop and execute a winning campaign plan. So if you're interested in politics and want to make a difference in the world, consider studying Political Campaign Management. It's a challenging and rewarding field that can lead to a fulfilling career and a lifetime of civic engagement.

Are you interested in politics and have a passion for making a difference? If so, you may want to consider a career in Political Campaign Management. This field is all about strategizing, organizing, and executing successful political campaigns that can change the world. As a Political Campaign Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a winning campaign strategy for your candidate. This includes everything from fundraising, building a strong team, and developing a message that resonates with the voters. You will be in charge of creating a campaign that connects with the people and helps your candidate win the election. One of the most appealing aspects of this role is the opportunity to work on campaigns that can make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you could work on a campaign that advocates for better healthcare, environmental protection, or social justice. The possibilities are endless, and the impact can be enormous. The duties of a Political Campaign Manager can vary depending on the size of the campaign and the level of the office being sought. However, some typical duties include managing the campaign budget, organizing events, coordinating with volunteers, and overseeing the candidate's schedule. There are also many areas of specialization within this field, such as fundraising, digital marketing, and grassroots organizing. To become a Political Campaign Manager, you will need a strong educational background in political science, communications, or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Political Science, Public Policy, and Communications. Additionally, many Political Campaign Managers have experience working on political campaigns or in related fields such as public relations or advertising. Helpful personal attributes for this career include strong communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and a passion for politics and social issues. You should also be comfortable working long hours and be willing to travel frequently. Job prospects for Political Campaign Managers are good, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include political parties, advocacy groups, and consulting firms. Additionally, there are many opportunities to work on international campaigns and make a difference on a global scale. In conclusion, if you are passionate about politics and want to make a difference in the world, a career in Political Campaign Management may be right for you. With the opportunity to work on campaigns that can change people's lives, this field offers an exciting and rewarding career path.

Academic concepts like technology, media control, and truth-telling are explored in George Orwell's work, particularly in his novel 1984. Orwell's fascination with technology and its potential is relatable to our own generation's interest in social media and online identity. The novel's portrayal of a state controlling all media and messaging is contrasted with our diverse media landscape today, although some states still try to suppress online speech. Orwell's commitment to truth-telling is a valuable lesson for us today, as we navigate the spread of mistruths and lies on social media. By exploring these academic concepts, we can better understand the role of technology in our lives and the importance of staying vigilant against attempts to control or manipulate information.

In "The Evolution of Cooperation," Robert Axelrod delves into the age-old question of whether cooperation is possible in a world of self-seeking individuals. Through exploring the famous computer tournaments and the success of the "cooperative" program Tit for Tat, Axelrod provides valuable insights into how cooperation can emerge without a central authority to regulate it. This classic book is widely praised and discussed, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the problem of cooperation and its application to a broad spectrum of subjects. Recommended for students of political science, economics, sociology, and psychology, as well as professionals in business and international relations, "The Evolution of Cooperation" offers valuable insights into the possibility of unforced cooperation. Axelrod's exploration of the success of the "cooperative" program Tit for Tat provides practical applications for readers to apply cooperative principles to their own lives and teach them to others. This classic book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the problem of cooperation and its relevance to a range of fields and interests.

Are you someone who loves to write, is passionate about current events and has a desire to uncover the truth? If yes, then a career in journalism may be the perfect fit for you! Journalism is a dynamic and exciting field that involves investigating, reporting, and writing about events, issues, and stories that matter to people. Journalists play a crucial role in society by providing the public with accurate and reliable information. They are responsible for reporting on a wide range of topics, from politics and business to sports and entertainment. They are the eyes and ears of the public, and their work often has a significant impact on people's lives. As a journalist, you can work in a variety of settings, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and online media. You can specialize in a particular area, such as investigative journalism, sports journalism, or environmental journalism. You can also work as a freelance journalist, writing for various publications and outlets. To become a journalist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Many universities offer journalism programs that provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include journalism, mass communication, and media studies. In addition to formal education, there are certain personal attributes that can help you succeed as a journalist. These include strong writing and communication skills, curiosity, persistence, and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Job prospects for journalists vary depending on the type of media outlet and the location. However, with the rise of digital media, there are more opportunities than ever before for journalists to work in online media. Some notable employers in the field include The New York Times, CNN, BBC, and Reuters. In conclusion, a career in journalism can be both exciting and rewarding. It offers the opportunity to make a difference in the world by informing the public and holding those in power accountable. So, if you have a passion for writing and a desire to uncover the truth, consider pursuing a career in journalism!

As high school students, we often believe that our intelligence and education will protect us from making errors. However, research shows that this is not always the case. In fact, greater intelligence and expertise can sometimes amplify our mistakes. This phenomenon is known as cognitive miserliness, where we rely too much on our gut feelings and are swayed by irrelevant information and our own emotions. This can lead to poor financial decisions, falling for fake news, and even polarized political views. However, there are techniques we can use to avoid these thinking traps, such as arguing against ourselves, self-distancing, mental time travel, and fine-tuning our emotional awareness. By learning about these concepts and implementing them in our lives, we can become more effective critical thinkers and decision-makers, both in our personal and academic lives.

Are you tired of the toxic polarization in politics? A recent study from UC Berkeley found that simple bipartisan commitments to the old-fashioned ideals of American democracy may offer a way to ease this polarization and increase positive feelings among voters on all sides. The innovative research, released in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, found that both Republicans and Democrats expressed strong support for hallmark democratic practices, but support erodes when voters on one side believe their opponents are hostile to those values. If you want to learn more about how to increase people's willingness to adhere to democratic norms, check out the full article from UC Berkeley!

Do you ever find yourself doing something that you know isn't right, just because "everyone else is doing it"? You're not alone! Our behavior is strongly influenced by the social norms and moral cues around us. In fact, researchers have found that people are more likely to act ethically when they believe that others around them are doing the same. So, what are moral cues, and how do they influence our behavior? A moral cue is any signal or sign that conveys information about what is expected or appropriate in a given situation. For example, if you see a sign that says "Please don't litter," that's a moral cue. Similarly, if you see a group of people picking up trash at a park, that's a social norm that signals it's important to keep the environment clean. Research has shown that moral cues and social norms can be incredibly powerful in shaping our behavior. A study led by Dr. C. Daniel Batson at the University of Kansas, found that people were more likely to help someone in need when they believed that others around them would also help. This is because the social norm of helping others became more salient and more people were likely to act accordingly. So, why is this important? Understanding the power of moral cues and social norms can help us design more effective interventions to encourage pro-social behavior. For example, if we want to encourage people to recycle, we might place signs that emphasize how many other people are already recycling. This can make the social norm of recycling more salient and encourage more people to do it. Leading academics in this field include Dr. Robert Cialdini, a social psychologist who has studied the power of social norms and persuasion, and Dr. Linda Skitka, a professor of psychology at the University of Illinois who has researched the influence of moral values on political attitudes. In conclusion, our behavior is not solely determined by our own moral compass, but is also strongly influenced by the social norms and moral cues around us. The power of moral cues and social norms can be harnessed to encourage pro-social behavior, and understanding their influence can help us design more effective interventions. By recognizing the impact of moral cues on our choices and actions, we can become more aware of the forces that shape our behavior, and use this knowledge to create positive change in ourselves and in our communities.