Freakonomics Radio How Can We Break Our Addiction to Contempt? (Update)
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Oct 15, 2025 
Arthur Brooks, an esteemed economist and Harvard professor, believes love is the antidote to today's political contempt. He dives into how media consumption fuels a dopamine-driven addiction to contempt, driving polarization. Brooks distinguishes contempt from anger, emphasizing its cold nature. He shares practical love-centered strategies to combat contempt in everyday life and discusses leadership's role in shaping our political climate. With insights from his personal journey, Brooks urges listeners to embrace actionable love to foster unity.
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Contempt As An Addictive Reward Loop
- Arthur Brooks argues political contempt is an addictive reward loop fueled by media and partisan signaling.
- That contempt displaces love and long-term happiness, creating a self-reinforcing cycle.
Polarization Shown In Voting Records
- Congressional party unity votes rose dramatically from mid-20th century levels to the present.
- Major recent bills often pass with zero votes from the other party, illustrating deep polarization.
Economic Shocks Drive Populism
- Financial crises produce long-lasting surges in political populism and polarization.
- Unequal recoveries that favor the wealthy open political space for populist leaders.
