Future Tense
The vicious cycle of fear and anger — and how it traps society
Jan 16, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Erika Ferszt, branding expert and founder of Scintillate Brand Consulting, teams up with Harvard researcher Jennifer Lerner, who specializes in emotions and decision-making. They delve into how fear underpins authoritarian control and influences democratic societies, exacerbating populism. The guests also explore the commercial benefits of anger and outrage marketing, revealing how society profits from emotional manipulation. The conversation highlights the vicious cycle where fear and anger blind critical thinking, complicating our decision-making.
29:08
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Quick takeaways
- Fear significantly shapes societal behaviors and decisions, often overshadowing aspirational values in democratic contexts and driving apathy.
- Anger drives quick actions in response to perceived injustice but can cloud judgment and fuel polarization, complicating constructive dialogue.
Deep dives
The Role of Fear in Society
Fear is identified as a significant motivator in shaping human behavior, influencing decision-making on both societal and individual levels. It serves as a mechanism for both coercion and positive change, as seen in public health campaigns aimed at addressing issues like climate change. However, when fear overshadows aspirational values in democratic societies, it can lead to apathy and a failure to engage with progressive ideals. The relationship between fear and hope is complex, as both emotions can drive people toward or away from action depending on how they are harnessed by various leaders and institutions.
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