Exploring Polarization in American Institutions and Media

This chapter explores the fragmentation of collective identities in the U.S. and the contributing role of institutions like media and universities, as illustrated by recent controversies. The speakers reflect on the challenges of addressing extremism and polarization while considering the influence of generational differences.

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In this episode of Upstream, we revisit a 2020 conversation with Erik Torenberg and Katherine Boyle exploring the intersection of religion and media in this tech-driven world. Katherine discusses her Washington Post article on how San Francisco's tech advancements have largely bypassed religious institutions. They explore the factors behind this gap, the emergence of digital faith, and the decline of traditional religious affiliations. Katherine also shares her insights on the media landscape discussing the challenges and opportunities in subscription-based journalism and the potential for startups in both media and religion.

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LINKS:

Silicon Valley has digitized everything but religion. Will that change? - https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/05/21/silicon-valley-has-digitized-everything-religion-will-that-change/

Pew Research Forum : https://www.pewresearch.org/

In U.S., Decline of Christianity Continues at Rapid Pace - https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2019/10/17/in-u-s-decline-of-christianity-continues-at-rapid-pace/

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(01:26) Katherine’s Article on the Washington Post About Religion and Technology

(02:47) The Decline of Religious Affiliation in the US and Europe

(04:27) Polarization and Secularization

(07:55) Media's Role in Polarization

(11:26) SPONSORS: Squad | Babbel

(14:12) The New York Times Controversy

(21:56) The Role of Independent Journalists

(23:41) The Fairness Doctrine and Media Fragmentation

(27:25) Subscription Models in Journalism