Opinion Science
#103: Taking Extreme Action with Joe Siev
Jan 6, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Joe Siev, a postdoctoral fellow at the Darden School of Business, delves into the intriguing link between ambivalence and extreme political behavior. He reveals how mixed feelings can lead individuals to take decisive yet extreme actions, especially during crises like COVID-19. Joe also explores the role of cognitive dissonance and how our perceptions and expectations shape emotional responses. This conversation challenges traditional views on ambivalence, shedding light on its complex dynamics in various decision-making contexts.
45:06
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Quick takeaways
- Ambivalence often delays decision-making but can paradoxically drive people to take extreme political actions to affirm their beliefs.
- Extreme behaviors, such as political violence, arise from a need to resolve inner conflict and intentionally signal commitment to a cause.
Deep dives
Understanding Ambivalence
Ambivalence refers to the experience of holding conflicting evaluations about an object, where one might feel positively and negatively at the same time. This mixed opinion can lead to subjective feelings of internal conflict, making decision-making challenging. When individuals feel ambivalent, they often find it difficult to take decisive actions, which can result in delayed decisions or outsourcing choices to others. As such, ambivalence can create a significant barrier to action, particularly in situations that require clarity and confidence in one's choices.
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