The Roots of Extremism in Your Brain

Explore the neurological and psychological roots of extremism in this thought-provoking panel discussion from the World Science Festival. Delve into topics such as the psychology of hate, group identity, tribalism, and the impact of social media on polarization. Learn from experts Jonathan Haidt, Jay Van Bavel, Kate Porterfield, and Jere Van Dyk as they examine how the human brain makes emotionally driven decisions that can lead to fundamentalism. Discover insights on the evolution of extremist behaviors, the ingredients for stable democracies, and potential ways to mitigate the negative effects of online echo chambers. Gain a deeper understanding of the complex factors contributing to zealotry and extremism in modern society through this comprehensive exploration of the fundamentalist brain.

- Introduction of Participants
- What is extremism?
- The psychology of hate
- Does the concept of what is "extreme" change over time or across cultures?
- Who becomes an extremist?
- Psychology of group identity
- The loss of self in groups
- Psychology of tribalism
- Polarized online echo-chamber
- Is social media bad for society and lead to extremism?
- The depersonalization of out-groups
- Is there any reason for optimism that things will become less extreme?
- What are the right ingredients for a stable democracy?
- Do we have a misperception of what the consensus belief is?
- How can we improve the humanity of social media?
- Jere Van Dyk recounts his time held hostage by the Taliban
- Do we train military soldiers to become extremists?
- Group dissenters