Keith Payne, a professor at the University of North Carolina and author of "Good, Reasonable People," dives into the psychological roots of America's political divides. He explores how socioeconomic status affects political beliefs, revealing unexpected voting patterns. The conversation includes the impact of education on political affiliation and the complexities of relationships amidst differing ideologies. Payne also highlights the influence of social factors on beliefs and the role of empathy in bridging divides, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

Keith Payne, PhD, is an author and expert on the psychology behind political division. He delves into the roots of U.S. polarization and how social identity often shapes political beliefs, rather than stable ideologies. Payne discusses the psychological mechanisms of motivated reasoning and confirmation bias, revealing how these biases protect personal identities. He also examines the historical influences, including the legacy of the Civil War, and emphasizes the importance of constructive dialogue in bridging divisive gaps.

Where do you stand on the income ladder? Do you think of yourself as rich, as poor, or as somewhere in between? Our perceptions of wealth — our own, and other people's — can affect us more profoundly than we realize. This week in our Money 2.0 series, we revisit two of our favorite conversations about wealth and inequality. Sociologist Brook Harrington takes us inside the lives of the über wealthy and the people who manage their fortunes. Then, psychologist Keith Payne shares surprising research about income inequality and how it shapes our minds. If you like this show, be sure to listen to the other episodes in this series, including our conversation about the mental scripts that shape our choices around money.Also, check out our new podcast, My Unsung Hero! And if you'd like to support our work, you can do so at support.hiddenbrain.org.