Your Brain On Climate
Common Sense, with Dannagal Young
Dec 1, 2024
Dr. Dannagal Young, a Professor of Communication and Political Science at the University of Delaware, dives into the murky waters of how 'common sense' is exploited in political discourse, particularly by figures like Donald Trump. She discusses the psychological traits influencing our political beliefs and how these affect climate change perceptions. Young emphasizes the need for relatable communication in addressing complex issues, especially in combating misinformation and psychological reactance among resistant audiences.
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Quick takeaways
- Populist leaders like Trump leverage common sense to simplify complex ideas, emphasizing the subjective nature of this concept shaped by cultural backgrounds.
- Effective climate communication should focus on positive messaging and empowering individuals with actionable steps to foster engagement and reduce perceived threats.
Deep dives
Understanding Political Psychology
Political psychology examines how individuals form beliefs and opinions regarding political ideas, including climate change. It encompasses the notion of lay epistemology, which suggests that many people rely on common sense and intuition to understand complex issues. This approach is often embraced by populist leaders who appeal to the perspective of 'regular people' as opposed to established institutions and evidence. The challenge lies in how to communicate scientific and factual information in a way that resonates with people's everyday understanding of the world.
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