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Welcome to Episode 32: Why We Are So Polarised in 2025: Reflecting on the Art of Debate Pt. 2, where Dr Marcus and Charlie explore how identity, belonging, and social media have shaped the way we disagree, and why finding common ground feels harder than ever.

From Social Identity Theory to algorithmic echo chambers, this episode unpacks the psychology behind political and cultural polarisation, exploring why so many of us now see those who think differently as not just wrong, but immoral. Together, we look at how to build dialogue that protects dignity without erasing difference.

We explore:

Practical Advice for Listeners:

Thanks for listening! If this episode helps you see debate through a more human lens, share it with someone you disagree with, you might both come away wiser 💬

📍 Pillars explored: Introspection & Inspiration, Community & Connection, Wellbeing & Joy

📚 References cited in this episode:

Brady, W. J., Wills, J. A., Jost, J. T., Tucker, J. A., & Van Bavel, J. J. (2017). Emotion shapes the diffusion of moralized content in social networks. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(28), 7313–7318. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1618923114

Javed, U., & Javed, U. (2023). The Influence of Social Media Algorithms on Political Polarization and Public Opinion. Online Media & Society, 4(2), 44–52. https://doi.org/10.71016/oms/2ffw9391

Norris, P., & Inglehart, R. (2019). Cultural backlash: Trump, Brexit, and authoritarian populism. Cambridge University Press.

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