Politics on the Couch Five Years: Our Brains Hurt A Lot
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Apr 21, 2025 Reflecting on five years of political insights, the hosts delve into the psychology behind authoritarianism and populism. They analyze the impact of fear on voter turnout and the challenges faced by liberal parties. The discussion includes the ethical dilemmas of psychoanalyzing political figures and the dark allure of charismatic leaders. They also emphasize the importance of maintaining mental hygiene in the age of negative online discourse, advocating for cognitive empathy as a tool to navigate differing political perspectives.
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Genesis of Politics on the Couch
- Philip Berman initially wanted to psychoanalyse countries based on history and trauma. - Shifting focus to political personalities led to the creation of Politics on the Couch.
Personality Shapes Politics
- Boris Johnson's personality profoundly shaped UK politics post-Brexit. - Personality psychology became crucial to understanding political dynamics.
Politics Hardens Emotional Sensitivity
- Political environments can transform normal people into hardened, emotionally calloused politicians. - This shift affects ideological rigidity and openness to evidence.
