This chapter analyzes the psychology behind extremist behavior and explores the motivations behind extreme actions, particularly in the context of political events like the 2024 debate between President Joe Biden and ex-President Donald Trump. It also discusses strategies to combat extremism and the role of politicians in perpetuating polarization.
Psychologists usually expect ambivalence to be a driver of political apathy. But a new study appears to show a link between ambivalence in our views and the likelihood that we’ll support extremist actions. Madeleine Finlay speaks to the study’s co-author Richard Petty, professor of psychology at Ohio State University, to find out what pushes people to take extreme actions, how politics could be driving this behaviour and how it could be combated. Help support our independent journalism at
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