Is there anything we can actually do about polarization?

The podcast explores the concept of political sectarianism, a turbocharged form of polarization driven by negative feelings toward the opposing political side. It features Jay Van Bavel, a social psychologist at NYU, who explains how this phenomenon differs from traditional ideological disagreements, emphasizing the dramatic increase in out-group hate over the last 40 years. Van Bavel argues that political sectarianism has tangible consequences, such as influencing people's adherence to public health guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic and impacting electoral outcomes. The conversation touches on how media misrepresentations and social exclusion contribute to the problem, using the example of Jordan Peterson's trajectory. Ultimately, the podcast questions the effectiveness of moral outrage as a tool for political change, advocating for more pragmatic and locally focused actions.