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.

The concept of utopia and dystopia has been explored throughout history in literature and art. While utopias envision a perfect world, dystopias imagine a world where certain trends in contemporary society are taken to extremes, exposing their underlying flaws. Dystopian fiction is a cautionary tale that warns us about the idea that humanity can be molded into an ideal shape. By exploring dystopian literature, we can gain a better understanding of the world we live in and the challenges we face. It encourages us to question our assumptions about the future and to think critically about the society we want to build. By engaging with dystopian ideas, we can become more informed and active citizens, ready to shape a better future for ourselves and our communities.

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.

From her unexpected ascent to the throne to her seven-decade rule, Queen Elizabeth II left an indelible mark on the world. Explore the life of Britain's longest-reigning monarch and her journey through triumph and sorrow, conflict and change.

Aristotle's Treatise on Rhetoric, written over 2,000 years ago, explores the art of persuasion through communication, which is still relevant today. The three types of persuasive speech Aristotle describes are: forensic rhetoric, which establishes facts and judgments about the past; epideictic rhetoric, which makes a proclamation about the present situation; and deliberative rhetoric, which focuses on the future. The latter is the most effective in achieving change and involves three persuasive appeals: ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos is how you convince an audience of your credibility, logos is the use of logic and reason, and pathos appeals to emotions. Knowing how to use these rhetorical appeals is essential in persuading others, but also in recognizing when they are being used on you. Understanding and mastering the art of rhetoric can help you communicate more effectively and achieve your goals.

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.

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.

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!

Discover the hidden history of Britain's post-war immigration laws and their imperial roots. Learn how citizenship and immigration policies shaped the Windrush scandal and continue to impact the UK today. Explore the connections between immigration laws and Britain's relationship with the rest of the world.

Have you ever wondered why your parents seem so concerned about your mobile phone and its "dangers"? Turns out this is nothing new! Media panic, or emotional criticism against a new medium or technology, has been around for centuries. With each new medium typically comes concern over its addictive and harmful nature. An example of this would be the development of mass printing in Britain in the 18th century, which led to many people protesting against the sudden ability for people to spread "poison continuously flowing through" society. However, history has shown that these concerns often fade over time, and new forms of media take their place. Learning about media panics can provide perspective and help us avoid panicking about the latest technology. Additionally, understanding cultural capital and the role of knowledge about culture in establishing one's position in society can help explain why some individuals may react nervously to new forms of media. By exploring these concepts, students can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which media affects society and the importance of approaching new technology with caution but also with an open mind.

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!

In a world where social media is king, how do modern protests form and operate? Zeynep Tufekci offers insightful analysis and firsthand experience in "Twitter and Tear Gas." From the Zapatista uprisings in Mexico to the Arab Spring, Tufekci explores the power and limitations of using technology to mobilize large groups of people. Discover how tear gas empowered protesters in Istanbul's Gezi Park, and why the Occupy Movement refused to use bullhorns in New York. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of governance, culture, and the role of social media in modern protest movements. Recommended for political science, sociology, and communication studies students, as well as activists and organizers, "Twitter and Tear Gas" offers a unique perspective on the role of social media in modern protest movements. Zeynep Tufekci's firsthand experience and scholarly insights provide a nuanced understanding of how protests form and operate in the digital age. This book is relevant to anyone interested in the intersection of technology, culture, and governance, and how social media has changed the way people mobilize and demand change.

In 1833, Lydia Maria Child shocked readers with her book "An Appeal in Favor of that Class of Americans Called Africans," denouncing slavery and exposing its power in US politics. Child, together with a small group of activists, were not just antislavery, but abolitionists, convinced that slavery should end immediately and without compensation to enslavers. Despite facing backlash and sexism, Child's activism inspired the formation of the Boston Female Anti-Slavery Society and the first national political gathering of Black and white women, leading to legal protection for Black Americans in Massachusetts.

Canadian singer, Jully Black, made headlines when she sang her country's national anthem at an NBA all-star game and altered the lyrics from "our home and native land" to "our home on native land" in solidarity with indigenous communities. This small change has sparked a larger conversation about Canada's history of oppression and assimilation of indigenous people, and the need for reconciliation. While some have criticized the change, many have praised it as a model for all Canadians. This issue raises important questions about identity, power, and representation, and highlights the role of music and art in social and political activism.

Christopher Hitchens, one of the most incisive minds of our time, meets George Orwell in this thought-provoking essay, where he assesses the life, achievements, and myth of the great political writer. Hitchens examines Orwell's perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. Whether thinking about empires or dictators, race or class, nationalism or popular culture, Orwell's moral outlook remains indispensable in a world that has undergone vast changes in the fifty years since his death. This book is a tightly woven and subtle argument that addresses not only why Orwell matters today but how he will continue to matter in a future, uncertain world. Recommended for history buffs, political science students, and anyone interested in the power of language and the role of the writer in society. This book offers a unique perspective on the life and work of George Orwell, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. Christopher Hitchens' essay is a thought-provoking analysis of Orwell's moral outlook and his perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. It is a must-read for those who want to understand the influence of Orwell's writing on our modern world and how his ideas continue to shape our understanding of politics, culture, and society.

Metaphors are all around us, shaping our beliefs, attitudes, and actions in ways we don't even realize. They make the world "sting and tingle," bringing color and meaning to everyday life. But not everyone is a fan. Philosopher Thomas Hobbes compared the use of metaphors to lying. However, many of us use metaphors to express anything abstract. They help us understand complex ideas like heartbreak and time. But metaphors also play a huge role in political framing and social issues. The words we choose affect how we perceive and deal with these issues, potentially affecting our laws, politics, and treatment of each other. So, knowledge of metaphors is power. By exploring and understanding metaphors, you can gain a deeper understanding of the world around you and potentially impact it positively.

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.

Why have so many Native Americans fought for a country that has colonized and broken promises to them for centuries? The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian is exploring this question in a new book and exhibition, "Why We Serve: Native Americans in the United States Armed Forces". The book highlights the unique traditions and motivations that Indigenous people bring to their military service, challenging stereotypes and shedding light on a long history of devotion to the U.S. military.

Can political discourse survive the culture wars? Philosopher Agnes Callard explores how Socratic politics can depoliticize arguments and free our speech. Discover the dangers of self-politicization and the tragedy of those who lack the freedom to inquire. Learn how to distinguish between coercive and illuminating persuasion and why not bullying is harder than it appears. Join the conversation on how we can best live together in a politically charged climate.

In a world of chaos and violence, how can we prevent ourselves from descending into anarchy? Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan explores this timeless question, arguing for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law. Shocking his contemporaries, Hobbes' work of political philosophy opened up questions about statecraft and society that still influence governments worldwide. This fully revised edition includes a new introduction, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the nature of power and governance. Recommended for political science students, policymakers, and anyone interested in the nature of power and governance, Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan offers a thought-provoking analysis of the role of the state in preventing anarchy. Its insights into the nature of society and the need for a powerful sovereign to enforce security and the rule of law have influenced governments worldwide. This book also has relevance to those interested in philosophy, history, and law, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of statecraft.