Exploring the psychology behind extremism, this chapter discusses strategies to combat extremism by introducing opposing viewpoints while acknowledging the positives of an individual's current position. It also delves into the dynamics of political debates, the impact of negative information, and the role of emotions in shaping attitudes and behaviors.
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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