The Tech Policy Press Podcast Through to Thriving: Journeying to Joy with Dr. Desmond Upton Patton
Jun 8, 2025
Dr. Desmond Upton Patton, a distinguished professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the transformative power of joy in his conversation. He highlights how youth harness humor and social media to uplift their communities, particularly in the face of violence. Reflecting on Black Twitter, he shares its nurturing community despite its decline. Patton also discusses crafting a graduate-level course focused on joy and practical strategies like 'joy stacking' that empower students to enhance their well-being while navigating the complexities of online interactions.
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Joy Emerges from Research
- Desmond Patton discovered joy in his research as a powerful tool that young people use to de-escalate violence and express connection.
- His friend Andre's insights on Black Twitter's use of joy deeply influenced this new focus in Patton's work.
Joy Is Enduring and Personal
- Joy is an enduring state growing alongside pain and grief, not just fleeting happiness.
- It is deeply personal and requires vulnerability, intention, and practice to embrace fully.
Joy in Black Resistance
- The Montgomery Brawl video sparked joy in many Black viewers as an expression of justified self-defense despite violence.
- This moment highlights the complex interplay between harm, history, and joy in content moderation.
